site.btaDeputy PM Poulev: Defence Industry Development Ranks Among Government Priorities

The current state of the defence industry, prospects for its development, and opportunities for expanding the partnership between the State and the business sector were discussed at a working meeting between Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy, Investments and Industry Alexander Poulev and Deputy Minister Mihaela Karadimova with representatives of the Bulgarian Defence Industry Association, the Ministry said.

Poulev emphasized that the development of the defence industry is among the government's priorities. He noted the sector's importance for economic growth, the strengthening of national industrial capacity, and enhancing the competitiveness of the Bulgarian economy. The Minister said that defence companies can count on the government's consistent support, adding that the increased interest in the Bulgarian defence industry is also reflected in the active dialogue with European institutions and partner countries. The discussions focus on developing industrial capabilities and strengthening Europe's defence technological and industrial base.

"We will continue to promote Bulgarian manufacturing and to create conditions for more active participation by Bulgarian companies in European initiatives and international supply chains," Poulev said, highlighting new opportunities in the areas of digitalization, innovation and cybersecurity, as well as the significant potential for industrial cooperation in the defence sector.

Deputy Minister Karadimova outlined the key takeaways from the Hemus 2026 International Defence Equipment and Services Exhibition: making full use of all EU support mechanisms, including the SAFE instrument, to complement national resources and ensure the sector's sustainable development, promoting investment in the defence sector, and exploring opportunities to deepen partnerships between the State and businesses.

At the end of the meeting, both sides confirmed their intention to maintain an active dialogue and close cooperation between institutions and industry representatives.

The debate on the development of the defence sector comes amid the government's announced policy change concerning military aid to Ukraine. Prime Minister Rumen Radev announced at the start of the regular cabinet meeting on Wednesday that the government is discontinuing the provision of weapons from the Bulgarian armed forces depots to Ukraine. Defence Minister Dimitar Stoyanov also said that Bulgaria does not plan to provide any more weapons to the Ukrainian army.