BNR and National Tourism Board sign memorandum of cooperation

Bulgarian National Radio (BNR) and the National Tourism Board (NTB) have signed a memorandum of cooperation to promote tourism in Bulgaria.

BNR Director General Milen Mitev said the public broadcaster seeks to encourage a culture of travel as a way of life.

“As a public media outlet, we believe it is important to foster a culture of travel in Bulgaria not as a one-time choice, but as a way of life. Our national and regional programmes, online platforms and, above all, our network of correspondents across the country can present stories about lesser-known places and create an emotional connection between people and the country’s natural beauty,' he said.

Polina Karastoyanova, Executive Director of the NTB, said that the BNR "commands respect and inspires confidence".

She added that the agreement forms part of events marking the organisation’s 20th anniversary, bringing together tourism organisations, municipalities, major investors and related sectors. another event to mark the anniversary is a conference titled Culture, Tourism, Communications which was held on Tuesday under the patronage of Bulgarian President Iliana Iotova.

BNR is also an official partner of the initiative The Four Keys to Sustainable Tourism – Culture, Nature, Food and Innovations.

Polina Karastoyanova said that Bulgarian National Radio enjoys strong public trust, describing it as a reliable and authoritative source of information.

“Every word you broadcast is a sign of assurance for Bulgarian society that the information provided is reliable, objective, timely and accurate,” she said. “For us, having our organisation's logo alongside that of the national radio station is motivating and purposeful. This brings a 20-year journey full circle, and these partnerships offer both perspective and a path forward.”

BNR Director General Milen Mitev emphasised Radio Bulgaria's role in connecting Bulgarians abroad with their homeland.

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“We will encourage young Bulgarians born abroad to return and discover the opportunities available here,” he stated. “At the same time, we must also show foreign audiences what Bulgaria has to offer as a tourist destination.”

He noted that the public broadcaster produces content in ten foreign languages, including those of neighbouring countries that are considered to be key tourism markets.

Mitev also welcomed the partnership with the National Tourism Board: 

“This is a cause that unites us — bringing more people to Bulgaria and showing them what a wonderful place it is,” he said.

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Editor: Elena Karkalanova