Diplomatic relations between both countries were established on July 8, 1879.

They were enemies in World War I and II, but in present times, they have a good relationship.

Bulgaria is a full member of the Francophonie since 1993.

Both countries are full members of the Council of Europe, the European Union and NATO.

French president Nicolas Sarkozy helped in the liberation of the Bulgarian nurses who had been framed in the HIV trial in Libya.