Vienna Economic Forum (VEF) was a strategic partner of the discussion forum titled “Concessions – Opportunities and Challenges,” which took place on 23 October in the Aula (Grand Hall) of Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”.

The event was organized by the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration of Sofia University, with the participation of the Dean, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Atanas Georgiev, and the Head of the Master’s Programme “Eyeconomics and Management of Public Resources,” Assoc. Prof. Dr. Savina Mihaylova-Goleminova.

Secretary General of Vienna Economic Forum (VEF), Ambassador Dr. Elena Kirtcheva, delivered a congratulatory address to the participants, emphasizing the importance of public–private partnership for regional economic development.

Among the guest speakers were Ms. Mariana Slavkova, Head of the Concessions Department at the Directorate “Strategic Development, Coordination and Concessions” of the Council of Ministers; Ms. Nona Karadzhova, Minister of Environment and Water (2009–2013); Ms. Zhanna Velichkova, Executive Director of the Association of Soft Drinks Producers in Bulgaria; and Mr. Lyubomir Filipov, Director of Strategic Partnerships and Projects at Veolia Solutions Bulgaria EAD.

The discussions also focused on concessions in the field of mineral resources, including the closure and reclamation of the “Ada Tepe” mine, presented by Mr. Ivan Ivanov, Manager of Permitting and Legal Affairs at DPM Krumovgrad EAD. The final panel addressed the legal and financial aspects of concessions, featuring Dr. Marina Belcheva (attorney-at-law) and Dr. (Econ.) Rozalina Kozleva.

The Bulgarian News Agency (BTA) was the media partner of the event. More information can be found in publications by BTA here and here.