"The wine sector is a leader in agriculture in Bulgaria and deserves to take its place in the development of the country's economic policy," announced the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Forestry Rumen Porodzanov at the opening of the 40^th World Congress of Wine and Vine, held in Sofia. Conducting the congress in Bulgaria will increase exports significantly in the coming year. An event of this magnitude gives a rare opportunity to popularize Bulgarian wine and Bulgaria as a wine destination. “The forum will contribute to shaping future policies in the sector in the coming years and the presence of key guests will increase the interest in Bulgarian wines," the Minister said. In his words, hosting this event will give us the unique opportunity to present Bulgarian wines to the world. He appealed to continue working towards the direction Bulgaria not only to be preferred, but also to become a favorite tourist destination. Minister Porodzanov expressed confidence that the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Forestry will continue to work actively to achieve this.

The Minister of Tourism Ms. Nikolina Angelkova welcomed the participants in the Congress and highlighted the growing importance of native wine production in the world. She pointed out that our country is leading an effective policy in positioning Bulgaria as a major tourist brand.

The event was also attended by Prof. Dr. Monika Christmann, President of the International Vine and Wine Organization, Mr. Jean-Marie Aurand, Director-General of the International Organization of Vine and Wine (OIV), the Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Food and Forestry Dr. Tsvetan Dimitrov, the Executive Director of the Executive Agency for Vine and Wine Mr. Krasimir Koev, and the President of the National Vine and Wine Chamber Mr. Radoslav Radev. More than 1000 delegates attended the congress.