Iraq is not a stranger to Bulgaria. For decades, the two countries shared close economic, educational and human ties. Spain shows how history can shape immigration policy, with shorter citizenship routes for nationals of several historically connected countries. Bulgaria could consider a similar approach for countries with which it has built strong historical ties, such as Iraq. This could include more accessible residence permits and, in certain cases, a facilitated path to citizenship.
Iraq – in the hearts of many Bulgarians
Bulgaria today
Bulgaria in 2026 is a very different country from the Bulgaria that many Iraqis knew many decades ago. The country is an EU member that has now fully integrated into the Schengen Area and the Euro zone. Bulgarian salaries and living standards have risen substantially. Bulgarians today are among the major spenders at some of the world’s most exclusive luxury destinations. And Bulgarians travel freely almost everywhere. Unlike some of Bulgaria’s old friends…
But did all this new wealth and prosperity make Bulgaria forget its old friends? I really hope not.
A timeless friendship that went beyond borders
What began as a formal diplomatic step in 1958 quickly grew into a profound partnership that defied distance. In the decades that followed, Iraq became a cornerstone of Bulgaria’s economic relations in the Middle East. Together, the two nations built a shared history, with Bulgarian enterprises lending their expertise to major infrastructure, hydro-engineering, and industrial developments across Iraq.
Thousands of Bulgarians travelled to Iraq. Not just as short-term visitors, but as active participants in the country’s development. Engineers, architects, technicians, doctors, and construction specialists brought their skills to the region. Many lived there for years, building successful careers and forming deep, lifelong friendships with the Iraqi colleagues and families who welcomed them.
This exchange flowed beautifully in both directions. Generations of Iraqi students arrived to study at Bulgarian universities. A landmark cultural agreement signed in 1959 officially opened the doors for deep cooperation between universities, scientific institutions, and cultural organisations. It was a vibrant chapter of mutual enrichment, flourishing during what is remembered as the Golden Era of Iraq.
And some of the infrastructural had been performed by Bulgaria.
by one noble Iraqi
For a whole generation in Bulgaria, Iraq was not some distant country on the other side of the world. It was part of Bulgarian life.
And, I dare say, Bulgaria was also part of Iraqi life!
While others came as great powers, Bulgarians came as equals and friends
Iraq’s modern history also carries a very different relationship with the major Western powers. Britain administered Iraq under a League of Nations mandate from 1920 until 1932, during a period in which British strategic interests in the region were closely connected with imperial and economic concerns.
Bulgaria’s relationship with Iraq belonged to another historical chapter. Bulgaria did not rule Iraq. It did not administer the country as a colonial power. Its presence was largely connected with construction, engineering, education, technical cooperation and trade. But most importantly – with friendship!
Did we now forget about each other?
The bond between Bulgaria and Iraq weakened as the world changed. The wars in Iraq, international sanctions, the collapse of Bulgaria’s socialist economic system and the transformation of both countries disrupted many of the networks that had existed before.
The people who remembered the old relationship grew older. Some of them are not among us anymore. But we, their children, their grandchildren, will never forget what Iraq meant to our parents and to us. Neither will I.
The new generation in Bulgaria knows virtually nothing about the fascinating Iraq. And that’s a shame.
But Iraq didn’t go anywhere. Iraq lives in the hearts of many. And Iraq is in my heart too!
Could history have a place in the Bulgarian immigration and citizenship policies?
Many countries provide preferential treatment in immigration procedures for nationals of their former colonies. The United Kingdom, for example, offers a path to settlement and BN(O) passports to Hongkongers. Similarly, Spain and Portugal offer a shortened path to citizenship for citizens of nations that were once under their rule.
Bulgaria has never had colonies. But Bulgaria has had friends, real friends. And genuine friendship is far more valuable than colonial history. Shouldn’t Bulgaria offer at least minor advantages, such as streamlined residence rights or an accelerated path to citizenship, to those from its historically friendly nations?
I believe it should. This is not just because these people have earned it, but above all, because Bulgarians deserve it. We, as a people, should have the privilege of welcoming the noble individuals who come from countries that have long held a special place in our history and our hearts. This is something that I and my company will be fighting for. And one day, I am sure, we will get it done!
Today, I found myself travelling back in time and space. I returned to Baghdad, to my Iraq – a country that has endured so much pain over the last decades. My journey back was sparked by a noble man, an Iraqi who made me remember my father, bringing my own past back to life.
