Bulgaria and Iran signed Wednesday a Programme forexchange in culture, science, education, sport, and tourism in 2007-2009.

The document was signed by Deputy Foreign Minister Feim Chaoushev and Iran's Ambassador here Habibolla Biazar at an official ceremony in the Foreign Ministry.

Chaushev said at the signing ceremony that between Bulgaria and Iran there is active cooperation in the areas in the scope of the programme which creates a good basis for attaining the goals of the initiative for dialogue among the civilizations.

The signing of the document opens a new page in bilateral relations, Ambassador Biazar said, adding that the cooperation should not be limited within only the areas of the programme.

Bulgaria and Iran are to exchange three educational experts and provide, on a reciprocal basis, up to two study grants annually.

Bulgarian establishments of higher education will be able to take on Iranian students paying for their tuition.