Bulgaria’s Prime Minister, Nikolay Denkov, met with the President of the European Research Council (ERC), Prof. Maria Leptin, in Davos, Switzerland, to discuss the country’s scientific potential and achievements. The meeting took place during the World Economic Forum, where both leaders explored opportunities for a breakthrough in European research.
Prof. Leptin praised Bulgaria’s scientific accomplishments, highlighting its great potential in the field. She presented new ideas to improve the work of the ERC and discussed with Denkov ways to enhance the participation of Bulgarian scientists in the council’s projects. The meeting aimed to foster collaboration and bolster scientific advancements in the country.
During the private meeting, Prime Minister Denkov introduced Prof. Leptin to the BgGPT project. Developed by the Institute for Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence and Technology INSAIT at Sofia University, BgGPT is the first open large AI language model of the latest generation designed for the Bulgarian state, its users, and public and private organizations. The project was officially unveiled on January 15 and will be accessible free of charge in Bulgarian starting from March 3.
In addition to discussing BgGPT, Denkov updated the ERC on the progress of the GATE and PlantaSYST institutes in Bulgaria. To further strengthen relations, the Prime Minister extended an invitation to Prof. Leptin to visit Bulgaria and gain firsthand insight into the country’s vibrant research community.
The meeting between Prof. Maria Leptin and Prime Minister Nikolay Denkov signifies the recognition of Bulgaria’s scientific achievements and demonstrates the commitment to fostering collaboration and advancements in European research. The exchange of ideas and the invitation for Prof. Leptin to visit Bulgaria aim to create opportunities for greater participation of Bulgarian scientists in ERC projects and further elevate the country’s scientific standing on the European stage.
As Bulgaria continues to make strides in the field of science, this meeting marks a significant milestone in strengthening bonds and promoting scientific excellence. With the initiatives discussed during the gathering, Bulgaria is poised to contribute significantly to the advancements in European research.
The meeting between Prof. Maria Leptin and Prime Minister Nikolay Denkov serves as a catalyst for bridging the gap between scientific potential and tangible achievements in Bulgaria. By fostering collaboration and investment in research, Bulgaria is poised to further solidify its position in the global scientific community and contribute to the scientific progress of Europe as a whole.