Ministry of Tourism initiated Bulgaria to host the 9th Global Wine Tourism Conference

Bulgaria will host the World Wine and Gourmet Forum on the initiative of the Ministry of Tourism in cooperation with the UN World Tourism Organization

Today, the Minister of Tourism Miroslav Borshosh received the Secretary General of the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) Zurab Pololikashvili at an official meeting in Sofia. The two signed a letter of intent officially approving Bulgaria to host the ninth edition of the Global Wine Tourism Conference. 

Minister Miroslav Borshosh stressed the importance of this partnership for the development of Bulgarian tourism and the maintenance of international dialogue in the sector: "By organizing this prestigious conference in Bulgaria we give a chance for our ancient wine culture to be presented to the world and this recognition by the World Organization for our country is fully deserved," said Minister Borshosh during the conversation.

The main topics during the official meeting between Miroslav Borshosh and Zurab Pololikashvili were the sustainability of the sector, investments in the region, joint initiatives in education, the promotion of our rich cultural and historical heritage and the positioning of our country on the world tourism map as a leader in the field of wine tourism in Southeast Europe.

"Cooperation with UN Tourism is strategic for Bulgaria. This prestigious forum of the UN's specialised tourism agency will allow us to strengthen our position on the global tourism map and develop sustainable and competitive policies in the sector. The document signed today is only the first step," the minister further said.

Bulgaria is an active member of UN Tourism and currently sits on its Executive Board with a mandate until the end of 2027. Our country has hosted a number of prestigious events in cooperation with the Organization. UN Tourism is the most important and influential international organization in the field of tourism, of which Bulgaria has been a member since 1976. Bulgaria shares the Organization's vision of promoting competitive and sustainable tourism policies.

Mr. Pololikashvili's visit to Bulgaria continues in the coming days. It comes at a crucial time when the election of a new Secretary-General of UN Tourism for the period 2026-2029 is imminent.