site.btaModernizing Armed Forces Remains Defence Ministry's Top Priority

Ensuring national security through the development of modern, effective and interoperable armed forces remains a leading priority for the Ministry of Defence, Deputy Defence Minister Lyubomir Monov said during his address to the annual conference of Bulgaria's ambassadors and permanent representatives abroad, organized by the Foreign Ministry and held in Sofia on Monday, said the Defence Ministry press service.

"Rearmament and modernization are under way across all branches of the armed forces and in all operational domains," Monov said.

He recalled that the Council of Ministers decided to propose that the National Assembly ratify the SAFE Loan Agreement between the European Union and Bulgaria and the SAFE Operational Arrangements between the European Commission and Bulgaria.

"The Ministry of Defence will work to ensure that the national defence industry is involved in the rearmament and modernization of the Bulgarian armed forces," Monov said. He stressed that, in order to create a better balance in the European defence products market, the conditions for industrial cooperation should be improved so that at least 20% of the value of defence projects remains within national production.

Monov thanked Bulgaria's diplomats for their efforts and tireless work in enhancing the country's international standing, and for their excellent cooperation with the Defence Ministry.

"We rely on your expertise, in-depth analysis and proposals for practical approaches to addressing issues related to Bulgaria's security," he said.