Bilateral Treaties and Agreements
The relationship between India and Bulgaria has been fortified through a series of bilateral treaties and agreements that span a diverse range of sectors. These treaties illustrate the commitment of both countries to collaborate and foster deeper ties across various domains. Notably, agreements on tourism aim to enhance people-to-people contact, promote cultural exchange, and boost economic cooperation. The countries have also focused on legal and financial stability, as evident in their agreement on the Avoidance of Double Taxation, which facilitates smoother economic transactions and investment flows between them.
In a bid to ensure peace and security, India and Bulgaria have signed treaties aimed at combating organized crime, international terrorism, and the illicit trafficking of narcotics and psychotropic substances. These agreements highlight the countries’ joint efforts to address common threats and reflect a global understanding of the importance of collaborative security measures. Furthermore, protocols for foreign office consultations establish open channels for dialogue on various global issues, emphasizing diplomatic engagement and mutual support on the international stage.
The economic dimensions of India-Bulgaria relations are significantly outlined by agreements such as the Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement and the Air Services Agreement. These treaties are crucial for fostering trade relations and enhancing connectivity between the two nations. The Defence Cooperation pact showcases their shared interest in military collaboration and strategic partnership, which is increasingly relevant in contemporary geopolitical contexts. Additionally, the cooperation in science and technology facilitates knowledge exchange and innovation, while agreements in health and medicine reflect their commitment to addressing public health challenges collaboratively.
Moreover, the treaties pertaining to extradition and mutual legal assistance in criminal and civil matters enhance legal cooperation between the two nations, allowing for more effective responses to transnational crime. The treaty on the transfer of sentenced persons demonstrates a commitment to humane justice policies, while the protocol related to employment and social security underscores their focus on improving labor relations. Initiatives aimed at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) further bolster economic cooperation and encourage entrepreneurship.
The abolition of visa requirements for holders of diplomatic and official passports simplifies diplomatic engagement and enhances bilateral interactions. Furthermore, specialized programs for cooperation in education, culture, and the sciences reaffirm the cultural and academic links between the nations. Civil nuclear cooperation adds another layer to their partnership, underlining the importance of collaboration in energy security and technological advancement. Overall, the extensive network of treaties and agreements between India and Bulgaria is indicative of a robust and multifaceted bilateral relationship that continues to evolve.
Cultural relations between Bulgaria and India have been enriched by a series of formal exchanges and interactions over the years. By 2020, both nations had successfully signed 17 cultural exchange programmes aimed at fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of each other's rich heritage. The most recent programme, executed in March 2018 in New Delhi, was designed for the period of 2018 to 2020 and demonstrated ongoing commitment to mutual cultural diplomacy. The relationship took a significant leap forward with the visit of the illustrious Indian poet and Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore to Bulgaria in 1926, which marked an important milestone in strengthening literary ties.
Bulgaria has shown a keen interest in Indian literary classics, with works such as the Ramayana, Mahabharata, Vedas, Upanishads, and the Bhagavad Gita enjoying popularity among its people. Additionally, contemporary Indian authors like Prem Chand, Mulk Raj Anand, and Amrita Pritam have found a receptive audience in Bulgaria. Conversely, Bulgaria's rich literary heritage is also appreciated in India, where translations of works by celebrated Bulgarian poets like Hristo Botev, Hristo Smirnenski, and Nikola Vaptsarov can be found. This reciprocal literary exchange underscores the cultural affinity between the two nations.
Moreover, as part of the Centre for Eastern Languages and Cultures, Sofia University has developed a dedicated Indology Department that serves as a hub for the study of Indian culture, art, and history. The establishment of the East-West Indological Foundation in 1997 further signifies both countries' commitment to expanding the knowledge and appreciation of Indology across different platforms and educational levels. In addition to academic pursuits, individuals like Katya Tosheva exemplify the cultural crossover by practicing Yoga—an ancient Indian discipline—and mastering Indian classical dance forms such as Bharatnatyam, Kathak, and Odissi, thus bridging cultural gaps through artistic expression.
On the economic front, the trade relationship between India and Bulgaria has experienced fluctuations over the years. From the fiscal year 2013-2014, India’s exports to Bulgaria were valued at approximately $168.10 million, while imports from Bulgaria stood at $93.65 million, making total bilateral trade reach $261.75 million. Subsequent years showed variations, with total trade peaking at $421.75 million in 2016-2017, representing a significant exchange of goods and services. The most recent data from the 2019-2020 fiscal year, up until November, indicates a total trade value of $210.90 million, reflecting ongoing economic interactions despite occasional dips. The Indian embassy in Bulgaria plays an active role in facilitating trade and cultural events, serving as a catalyst for economic cooperation and cultural understanding between the two countries.