Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — New opportunities for official and legal employment in the European Union are opening up for Uzbek citizens, as Uzbekistan and Bulgaria move toward signing a bilateral agreement on labor migration. The initiative marks a significant step toward expanding international cooperation in the field of labor mobility.

During an official meeting between Behzod Musaev, Director of Uzbekistan’s Agency for External Labor Migration, and Denitsa Sacheva, Chair of the Committee on Labor and Social Policy of the Bulgarian Parliament, key issues were discussed — including the organization of migration processes, the training of qualified personnel, and the legal protection of workers.

The Bulgarian side expressed high regard for the work ethic, adaptability, and reliability of Uzbek nationals employed across various sectors of the Bulgarian economy.

Currently, intensive work is underway to finalize a state-level bilateral agreement that will ensure:

– legal and protected employment pathways for Uzbek workers;

– guarantees of legal and social protection for migrants deployed through authorized agencies;

– financial support mechanisms to aid in worker adaptation abroad.

During negotiations with Bulgaria’s Deputy Minister of the Interior, Lyubomir Yosifov, particular attention was paid to improving regulatory mechanisms for labor migration, enhancing conditions for Uzbek workers, and simplifying administrative procedures. The need to accelerate work visa issuance and streamline documentation processes was emphasized.

The Bulgarian side supported the creation of a joint working group and expressed readiness for systematic and mutually beneficial cooperation. It was noted that the current lack of a full intergovernmental agreement hampers the legal protection of workers — a gap that both sides aim to close promptly.

The urgency of the partnership is underscored by Bulgaria’s labor shortage. According to Rumen Radev, Chairman of the Board of the Bulgarian Industrial Capital Association, over 80,000 vacancies remain unfilled in industries such as construction, agriculture, and hospitality.

“Uzbek citizens have earned deep respect in Bulgarian society for their diligence, cultural awareness, discipline, and law-abiding nature,” Radev noted, highlighting the interest of Bulgarian businesses in expanding collaboration.

This initiative lays a reliable foundation for the safe, organized, and long-term employment of Uzbek nationals within the EU, creating tangible opportunities for economic and social integration.