SOFIA, Apr 2 With sound policies and good organization, Bulgaria can achieve a successful tourism season by presenting itself as a safe destination offering quality services at competitive prices, President Iliana Iotova said at a meeting with caretaker Tourism Minister Irena Georgieva and her team, President’s Press Secretariat reported here on Thursday.
The meeting was initiated by the head of State as part of a series of talks on the need for effective measures to mitigate the economic impact of the crisis in the Middle East.
Iotova and Georgieva agreed that effective support measures for the tourism industry should be developed in dialogue with sector representatives. Georgieva briefed the President on the current state of tourism, risks for the upcoming season, and the measures taken by the ?inistry to address the impact of the crisis and ease the burden on businesses, both economically and through regulatory changes.
Georgieva said that amid current concerns in the sector, longstanding issues persist, chief among them a shortage of workforce. The Ministry said it would propose to the Council of Ministers within two weeks an economic package of measures.
Iotova said that businesses should be supported in view of rising energy costs and that increases in service prices for both Bulgarian and foreign tourists should be avoided. She also noted that Bulgaria could benefit from a decline in tourist flows to destinations closer to the Middle East conflict by promoting itself as a safe country. Iotova warned against pre-election rhetoric that could exploit public fears and negatively affect Bulgaria’s image as a secure holiday destination.
In addition to short-term policies, medium-term measures are also needed to ensure sustainable development of the tourism sector and continuity between the caretaker and a regular government, Iotova said.
In the context of the caretaker Government’s plans to propose a draft 2026 state budget, Iotova raised the issue of introducing tourism vouchers for vulnerable groups, which, if properly regulated, could support both the sector and consumers.
The meeting also discussed increasing charter flights to Bulgaria, ensuring the safety of tourist facilities, and the responsible management of beaches.
