The investment climate in Bulgaria was relatively good, US ambassador to the country John Beyrle told private national channel bTV.

The proximity of the country to the Middle East and Africa, as well as its EU membership made it attractive destination for US investors, Beyrle said.

Government should pay more attention to major investors and improve intellectual property right practices, Beyrle said.

Political parties also had to get involved in improving the business climate by dealing with capital with unclear origin. This would further the interest of US investors already attracted by Bulgaria’s stability and economic growth.

Transparency, resulting from better legal practices, will increase competitiveness, Beyrle said.

Bulgaria had much higher investment attraction potential than what it was currently showing, Beyrle said. Some of the attractive sectors include production, tourism, information technologies, energy and real estate.