Foreign minister Velislava Petrova met Canada's new ambassador, Kevin Rex, the Foreign Ministry said. They discussed deeper bilateral ties and political dialogue, mainly in security and defence, energy, trade and investment, innovation and high technology.

Rex is based in Bucharest. Petrova told him Bulgaria will host a Connectivity Summit next spring, along with an investment forum. The forum will look at ways to fund specific transport corridor projects and attract investment for links between regions, the minister said. She said connectivity is one of Bulgaria's strategic priorities.

They also spoke about Black Sea security. Petrova said Bulgaria needs to work with its NATO allies, including Canada, to deter threats and strengthen maritime security. They also discussed defence co-operation and acquiring capabilities as Bulgaria modernises its armed forces.

The talks also covered partnership on digital technology, high technology and artificial intelligence. Both said there is room to work together on nuclear and hydropower, energy storage and critical raw materials.

Rex said trade between Bulgaria and Canada has grown by 200% since the EU-Canada Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement began to apply provisionally. He said the deal is a good basis for further growth in trade and economic ties with Bulgaria. They also discussed attracting more Canadian investment, encouraging tourism and promoting Bulgaria among Canadians.

The ambassador confirmed that Canada has consistently backed Bulgaria's bid to join the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.

They also discussed the prospect of opening a Canadian embassy in Sofia. The ministry said an embassy would widen the room for dialogue and partnership in areas of shared interest.

Deputy foreign minister Hristo Polendakov received copies of Rex's credentials a few days ago. According to the ministry, the Bulgarian side told Rex at that meeting that opening a Canadian embassy in Sofia is a priority and should be settled as soon as possible.