site.btaPM Zhelyazkov Thanks Omani Foreign Minister for Playing Key Role in Release of Bulgarian Sailors from Hijacked Galaxy Leader Ship

Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov expressed his gratitude to Oman for its decisive assistance in the release of Bulgarian sailors from the Galaxy Leader ship in January. This took place during his meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Sultanate of Oman, Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, who is on an official visit to Bulgaria — the first in the history of bilateral relations. Zhelyazkov emphasised Oman's active and constructive role in resolving the humanitarian case. “Without Oman's cooperation, this case could not have been resolved. Your country acted responsibly and decisively,” the Prime Minister said.

During the meeting, a common desire was expressed to build on the cooperation and turn it into the basis for a long-term strategic partnership between Bulgaria and the Sultanate of Oman.

Opportunities for joint work in areas such as the economy, energy, tourism, innovation, renewable sources, digital transformation and artificial intelligence were discussed. The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in the energy sector, which is forthcoming, was noted as an important step forward. Zhelyazkov pointed out that Bulgaria is an attractive investment partner with a geostrategic location, a competitive tax environment, and access to the markets of the EU and Southeast Europe. Interest was also expressed in cooperation in the field of security and the defence industry.

Particular attention was paid to the upcoming visit of the Minister of Economy of the Sultanate of Oman to Bulgaria, which is expected to strengthen trade and economic ties and create an opportunity for institutionalising cooperation through a joint mechanism for periodic consultations.

Prime Minister Zhelyazkov also expressed his appreciation for Oman's balanced and stabilising role in the Middle East region, emphasising the importance of diplomatic dialogue for sustainable peace and security. The two sides confirmed their commitment to actively participating in the strategic dialogue between the EU and the Gulf Cooperation Council.