site.btaCrafts' Significance as Guardian of Cultural Heritage, Regional Development Driver Becoming Increasingly Clear - Deputy Economy Minister

Deputy Minister of Economy and Industry Nevena Lazarova said during a forum here on Tuesday that in today's economic dynamics, the importance of crafts as a guardian of Bulgarian cultural heritage and as a driver for regional development, entrepreneurship and job creation in small settlements is becoming increasingly clear. She was speaking at the “Bulgarian crafts - traditions meet the future" international conference.

Lazarova noted that the Economy Ministry is pursuing policies to support local production, small businesses and innovation, including in the craft sector. "We also support the new European regime for the protection of geographical indications for craft and industrial products," she added.

Lazarova assured that the Ministry will continue to work together with all interested sides to create a stable framework for the development and recognition of Bulgarian crafts as authentic and protected products.

The forum was organised by the Bulgarian Patent Office together with the European Commission and the European Union Intellectual Property Office.