FROM TRADITIONAL COOPERATION TO AN INTERREGIONAL STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP: VIETNAM–BULGARIA RELATIONS, 2014–2025

Abstract

The diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Bulgaria, established in 1950, represent one of the longest-standing and most traditional partnerships between Vietnam and Europe. The period from 2014 to 2025 marks a new phase of development as the two countries shift from conventional bilateral cooperation toward a more comprehensive and substantive partnership. The year 2014 was chosen as a benchmark because it coincides with the negotiation and signing process of the EU–Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA, 2015), which opened new opportunities to strengthen economic collaboration between Vietnam and EU member states, including Bulgaria. Although the bilateral trade volume remains modest compared to Vietnam’s major European partners, Bulgaria continues to be a potential partner in areas such as pharmaceuticals, education, and food technology. Beyond economics, political, cultural, and security–defense cooperation has also expanded, particularly in training, United Nations peacekeeping missions, and non-traditional security. Overall, Vietnam–Bulgaria relations during 2014–2025 reflect a balanced, substantive, and sustainable development trajectory, contributing to Vietnam’s growing role in Asia–Europe cooperation and enhancing Bulgaria’s engagement in Southeast Asia.