Berlin, May 26, 2025 – Bulgaria has signaled its ambition to become a key player in the European Union’s artificial intelligence (AI) landscape, with Deputy Minister of Innovation and Growth Martin Danovski delivering a strong message at GITEX Europe 2025 in Berlin, one of the world’s largest gatherings for technology leaders and innovators.
Speaking during a high-level ministerial panel titled “Intelligence as Infrastructure: The New Engine of Economic Power,” Danovski emphasized that the global AI conversation must go beyond technological prowess to include ethical, social, and economic dimensions.
“Leadership in this field is not solely about scale or market dominance,” he said. “It’s about having a vision and a deep sense of responsibility.”
Danovski highlighted Bulgaria’s growing presence in AI research and development within the EU, citing recent milestones that reflect the country’s commitment to the sector.
He pointed to the Institute for Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence and Technology (INSAIT) in Sofia, recognized as one of Europe’s top AI research centers, as a flagship of Bulgaria’s innovation ecosystem.
Further boosting Bulgaria’s credentials is the recent upgrade of the Discoverer Supercomputer, now equipped with dedicated AI capabilities, and the country’s successful bid to host one of the EU’s six new AI factories—an initiative designed to bolster Europe’s technological sovereignty and advance large-scale AI projects.
The deputy minister also underscored the importance of education in sustaining Bulgaria’s momentum in AI. He outlined the government’s strategy to embed AI learning from high school through to university, aiming to build a workforce capable of driving innovation and competing on a global scale.
“Future leadership in AI will be determined not just by infrastructure or funding but by the quality of human capital we nurture today,” Danovski said, calling for more investment in training and digital literacy.
On the sidelines of the forum, Danovski inaugurated Bulgaria’s national pavilion at GITEX Europe 2025. Organized by the Executive Agency for the Promotion of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (BSMEPA) under the Ministry of Innovation and Growth, the pavilion featured over 100 Bulgarian high-tech startups.
The delegation showcased cutting-edge solutions in AI, cybersecurity, fintech, and smart manufacturing to thousands of international visitors, investors, and corporate partners.
Addressing the Bulgarian entrepreneurs at the event, Danovski praised their resilience and drive. “Thanks to your efforts, Bulgaria is not just participating in the digital revolution—it’s asserting itself as a vital part of the global tech ecosystem,” he said, also commending BSMEPA for its role in organizing the delegation.
GITEX Europe 2025 drew more than 40,000 attendees from over 100 countries, including 1,000 investors and tech executives. The event served as a key platform for exploring digital transformation trends and forging new partnerships.
Bulgaria’s prominent participation, both in policy dialogue and entrepreneurial presence, sent a clear message: the country is no longer a follower in innovation but is positioning itself as a leader in shaping Europe’s AI future.