site.btaUS Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Eastern Europe Highlights US-Bulgaria Partnership in Energy, Security, Emerging Technologies

US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Eastern Europe and Policy and Regional Affairs Christopher Smith took part in the third session of the Strategic Dialogue between Bulgaria and the United States, held at the Council of Ministers on Tuesday.

He reminded that the Strategic Dialogue began during the first administration of US President Donald Trump. "I think it is very fitting and very important that the first Strategic Dialogue that we have held with an EU Member State in this administration is today with Bulgaria, " Smith added. He said that the two countries share a "strong and enduring relationship grounded in common goals".

Smith noted that the bilateral partnership increases regional security, protects the borders of the two countries from ilicit trade and illegal migration, ensures energy security, and promotes commercial opportunities and innovation to increase their joint prosperity.

The US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State highlighted how the US sees this partnership advancing in each of these areas: 

Energy: The US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State said that the US is proud to be a partner in Bulgaria's effort to strenghten its energy independence and become a regional hub for reliable, affordable energy. "Working together to expand civil nuclear cooperation will help both our nations and Europe to help build more secure energy future," he added. 

Border Security: "Our continued partnership with Bulgaria to combat mass illegal migration and transnational crime, exepmlifies how law enforcement cooperation makes both our countries and the region safer."

Regional Security: "Bulgaria plays a critical role in defending NATO's eastern flank. You are promoting security in the Black Sea Region and sharing the burden as a very capable NATO ally. We are thrilled that the last of your first tranche of F-16s will be arriving imminently. Aquisition of F16 - the backbone of NATO allied air power - as well as the Stryker capability that you have taken on, are major milestones in Bulgaria's military modernization and we are very proud to be your partners in that effort. We stand ready to support your continued efforts to develop the capabilities you need to secure Bulgaria and meet your NATO obligations."

Emerging Technologies: "The United States is eager to work with Bulgaria as you launch data centres, as you foster innovative ecosystems and expand research and commercial partnerships with trusted partners who prioritize data security."