The development of tourism in the regions constitutes a priority for the State, business entities, and local authorities

Belogradchik constitutes an example of a successful destination; a National Tourism Professions Competition is being held in Velingrad

The development of the regional tourism potential, the establishment of partnerships between institutions and businesses, and the creation of a competitive tourism product were the principal matters addressed during the 11th working meeting between tourism sector representatives and local authorities. The Minister of Tourism, Irena Georgieva, opened the event organized by the Association of Bulgarian Tour Operators and Travel Agents and hosted by the Municipality of Belogradchik. It convened representatives of the State, municipalities, the tourism sector, and cultural institutions. Among the participants were representatives of leading tourism companies, local government authorities from various municipalities, digital experts, and representatives of museums.

"Today’s event focuses on certain of the most significant topics for the development of tourism in Bulgaria—namely, the development of regional tourism, partnerships between the public and private sectors, digitalization, and the successful international positioning of the Bulgarian tourism product," Minister Georgieva stated. According to her, it is precisely such formats that provide sustainable solutions for the development of competitive and recognizable destinations.

Petar Stoyanov, Chairman of the Association of Bulgarian Tour Operators and Travel Agents, stated: "No destination can be successful on its own; the key to sustainable tourism development lies in a partnership among businesses, local authorities, and the State." Boyan Minkov, Mayor of Belogradchik, said: "It is an exceptional honour for me to host such a significant event. Tourism in Belogradchik constitutes an absolute priority for us. The region possesses considerable potential that has yet to be fully realized."

The Minister emphasized the potential of Belogradchik as an exemplar of a successful tourist destination. According to official data for 2025, the principal tourist sites within the municipality were visited by approximately 125,000 tourists, with the Belogradchik Fortress and the Belogradchik Rocks attracting more than 87,000 visits, and the Magurata Cave attracting more than 33,000 visits annually. At the same time, according to data from the Unified Tourist Information System, there was an increase of nearly 23% in overnight stays at accommodation facilities in 2025 compared to 2024, indicating a positive trend in the region’s development.

The working meeting will address key matters, including integrated regional solutions, the expanding role of museums in cultural tourism, digitization and the implementation of new technologies, including artificial intelligence. Minister Georgieva further emphasized the necessity of improved integration of regional products into national tourism advertising.

Later in the day, Minister Georgieva will participate in the awards ceremony for the regional round of the National Tourism Professions Competition in Velingrad, hosted by the Aleko Konstantinov Vocational High School of Economics and Tourism -  Velingrad. The event convenes students from vocational high schools in the region, who shall demonstrate their skills in categories such as "best young chef", "best young waiter", "best young baker-pastry chef", and "best young animator".

Representatives of local authorities, educational institutions, and businesses will also participate in the event in Velingrad, including the Mayor of the Municipality, representatives of the Regional Education Department, and representatives of the tourism sector.