In terms of the economy and flagship sectors, Sofia is the capital and the largest political, economic, scientific, educational, and cultural center of Bulgaria. Located in the western part of the country at the foot of the Vitosha Mountain, Sofia is one of Europe's oldest capitals, with a history of formation and development spanning over 7,000 years. According to data from the Sofia Municipality and the official portal of the European Union, the city has a population of approximately 1.3 million and contributes a major share to Bulgaria's gross domestic product (GDP). Sofia stands out with its unique convergence of Thracian, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and modern European civilizations, reflected in its rich historical, architectural, and cultural heritage system. Today, Sofia is recognized as one of the fastest-growing information technology and innovation hubs in Southeast Europe, attracting numerous tech enterprises and international investors.
The ceremony presenting the Letter of Cooperation between Ho Chi Minh City and the capital Sofia of Bulgaria. - Photo: Nhan Dan News
Economically, Sofia serves as the growth engine of Bulgaria, with prominent strengths in information technology, financial services, industrial manufacturing, logistics, scientific research, and higher education. The city concentrates many universities, research institutes, and technology parks, playing a vital role in Bulgaria's digital transformation and knowledge-based economic development. On the basis of the friendly cooperative relations between the two localities, Ho Chi Minh City aims to expand cooperation with Sofia in five key focus areas:
1. Information Technology and Digital Transformation: Promoting cooperation among tech enterprises, research centers, and innovative organizations to develop digital technology solutions, Artificial Intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and smart cities.
2. Education, Science, and Human Resource Training: Strengthening alliances between universities and research institutes; promoting academic, student, and expert exchanges in the fields of science, technology, management, and innovation.
3. Trade, Investment, and Logistics: Supporting business matchmaking, trade promotion, expanding investment opportunities, and enhancing cooperation between the business communities of both localities.
4. Culture, Tourism, and People-to-People Exchanges: Boosting exchanges in culture, art, tourism, youth, and community cooperation to enhance mutual understanding between the citizens of both localities.
5. Sustainable Urban Development and Environment: Sharing experiences in urban planning, public transit development, environmental management, green transition, and upgrading the quality of life for citizens.