Algeria's ambassador to Bulgaria, Asma Baboush, says her country is ready to work with Bulgarian firms in food processing, engineering, pharmaceuticals, IT and telecoms, and energy. Invited by Yancho Yanev, head of the Haskovo Chamber of Commerce and Industry, she came to Haskovo to meet local business owners.

Kardzhali regional governor Biser Nikolov also took part in the meeting.

They discussed how to grow trade and economic ties between Bulgaria and Algeria, and whether Bulgarian firms could break into the Algerian market.

"I think there are many chances for Algeria and the Haskovo region to work together. That's exactly why I'm here today — to talk with local business people about the options and the road ahead for deeper cooperation," Baboush said.

She said Haskovo has a well-developed industry, and she hopes these meetings will open new doors for cooperation between the two countries.

Trade ties between the two countries already exist, the ambassador explained, but she hopes the talks in Haskovo will widen them and lay the ground for a new partnership.

"I'm very hopeful, and I believe this meeting will open the door to fruitful, long-term cooperation," she said.

Yancho Yanev welcomed the guests and explained how the chamber helps local firms build international contacts.

Business owners learned more about the conditions for trade and investment cooperation, how to find business partners, and how to get in touch directly with Algerian firms.