site.btaPM Zhelyazkov, European Council President Costa Discuss Innovation, European Competitiveness

Talks between Bulgaria’s Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov and European Council President Antonio Costa in Stara Zagora focused on the Bulgarian government's priorities for boosting industrial growth, promoting innovation, and building a high-tech economy in the context of European competitiveness, the Government Information Service said on Monday.

Prime Minister Zhelyazkov and President Costa visited the Aquaponics Centre at Trakia University in Stara Zagora – a unique educational, research and industrial project dedicated to ecological production in a controlled environment and spanning 4,000 square metres. Zhelyazkov and Costa were briefed on the opportunities presented by this first-of-its-kind project in Eastern Europe and the potential of aquaponic farming, which is organic, highly efficient, and allows for year-round production.

Aquaponics combines the cultivation of fish and plants within a shared aquatic ecosystem. Greenhouse structures and computerized equipment that precisely controls temperature and other key factors ensure optimal growing conditions. This technology enables maximum yields throughout the year, regardless of seasonal changes, with minimal water required.