Sofia, June 26, 2025 — The Europe Today: Bulgaria and Switzerland have formalised two significant joint initiatives under the framework of the Second Swiss Contribution, with a combined value of 18.7 million Swiss francs. The agreements, signed today in Sofia, aim to address air quality improvement and enhance integrated migration management in Bulgaria.
The signing ceremony was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Innovation and Growth Tomislav Donchev, Swiss Ambassador H.E. Raymund Furrer, Minister of Environment and Water Manol Genov, and Interior Minister Daniel Mitov.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Prime Minister Donchev highlighted that the cooperation extends beyond financial support, offering essential expertise and strengthening institutional ties between Bulgaria and Switzerland. “These projects aren’t only about the money, though it certainly matters. They’re about learning from institutions with more experience and about building lasting connections,” Donchev stated.
Swiss Ambassador Furrer praised the initiatives as “important and high-quality,” noting that both nations share common priorities and are dedicated to achieving tangible results through their collaboration.
The first project, Improving Air Quality, will receive 15 million Swiss francs and is being implemented by Bulgaria’s Ministry of Environment and Water. Environment Minister Manol Genov explained that the program would modernize Bulgaria’s National Air Quality Monitoring System, enabling the acquisition of advanced measuring equipment and contributing to the European air monitoring network with more reliable data.
The second initiative, Providing Support for Migration Management, is backed by 3.7 million Swiss francs and led by the Ministry of Interior. The project focuses on bolstering Bulgaria’s border and migration management systems while combating human trafficking. Efforts will include strengthening the capacity of institutions working with migrants, expanding integration centers in Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna, and Burgas, and implementing awareness campaigns to promote the social benefits of migrant integration.
Key partners in the migration project include the International Organization for Migration, Bulgaria’s National Commission for Combating Human Trafficking, and the Swiss advocacy group FIZ, which supports migrant women and survivors of trafficking.
Interior Minister Daniel Mitov emphasised the critical need to provide individuals granted international protection, as well as victims of human trafficking, with genuine access to employment opportunities and accelerated social integration.
The initiatives are expected to significantly enhance Bulgaria’s environmental standards and its ability to address migration challenges, reflecting the shared commitment of both countries to sustainable development and regional stability.
