We have the pleasure of inviting you to a high-level discussion focusing on recent political developments in Bulgaria and Hungary and their implications for economic cooperation and business opportunities.

Hungary: Recent parliamentary developments and the anticipated formation of a new government signal a potential recalibration of economic and European policy priorities, with a stronger emphasis on innovation-led investment and closer alignment with EU frameworks.  

Bulgaria: Despite periods of political instability, Bulgaria is an attractive destination for investors, supported by EU integration, growing investment activity, and opportunities in sectors such as infrastructure, digitalization, and energy. Bulgaria has adopted the euro and joined the Schengen area.

The event is co-organised by the Finland-Central and Eastern European Countries Business Association, Helsinki Region Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise Europe Network and Finnish Embassies to and Sofia and Budapest.

The event will be moderated by Mr. Tuomas Asunmaa, CEO & Co-Founder, Spondeo Consulting Asunmaa Sp.J.

Date:  16^th of June 2026 at 9:00 Helsinki time
Venue: Online
Registration: The event is free of charge. Please, register at latest on the 14^th of June 2026. Teams link will be sent to the registered participants on the 15^th of June 2026

Program

09:00
Insight of the Bulgarian market and political situation
Ms. Kirsti Pohjankukka, Ambassador, Embassy of Finland to Bulgaria
09:15
Market opportunities in Bulgaria and Hungary after the elections
Mr. Antti Rahikka, Director, Central & East Europe and Scandinavia
09.30
Ms. Manuela Naessl, Head of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) in Bulgaria
09.45
Insight of the Hungarian market and political situation
Ms. Kaisa Leidy, Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Finland to Hungary
10:00
Bulgarian Investment Agency
Mr. Julian Balchev, Secretary General, Invest Bulgaria Agency
10:15
Hungarian Investment Promotion Agency
Speaker to be confirmed
10:30
Company case:  Mr. Pekka Myllylä, Business Development Director, Leinonen Central Europe, Managing Director, Leinonen Hungary
10:45
Discussion
11:00
End of the event

We would be delighted by your participation and warmly welcome your contribution to this timely discussion on strengthening economic cooperation with Bulgaria and Hungary.

We look forward to welcoming you to our event.