The seminar was officially opened in person by the Minister of the Environment of the Czech Republic, Petr Hladík, together with the Bulgarian Deputy Minister of Environment and Water, Atanas Kostadinov, and the Czech Ambassador to Bulgaria, Miroslav Toman. All three speakers, in their opening remarks, emphasized the essential role of international cooperation in fulfilling the 2030 Agenda and highlighted some of the specific challenges of its implementation in the context of Central and Eastern Europe.

The main part of the program featured two expert presentations. Czech expert Anna Pasková introduced the framework and key outputs of the Czech VNR 2025, based on the strategic document Czech Republic 2030, and assessed progress toward fulfilling all 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Key topics included decarbonization, climate change adaptation, quality of life, and sustainable development at the local level. The presentation also showcased positive outcomes in emission reductions, air quality, and support for the circular economy and green investments.

Bulgarian expert Mariya Vladimirova followed with a presentation of Bulgaria’s latest results in implementing the SDGs, including sustainable water resource management, biodiversity, and the role of civil society. Both presentations were followed by a brief discussion with questions from the audience, contributing to experience sharing and the establishment of connections between experts from both countries.

The meeting confirmed that mutual dialogue and the exchange of best practices between states play a crucial role in achieving the goals of the 2030 Agenda. Czechia and Bulgaria have laid a solid foundation for continued cooperation in promoting a sustainable, climate-responsible and socially just future. This particular project was financed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as part of activities to support the implementation of the UN Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development.