site.btaBulgaria Plays Key Role for Black Sea Security, Says NATO Military Committee Chair
Bulgaria’s role is of primary importance for the security of the Black Sea region and beyond, from the Western Balkans to the Middle East, NATO Military Committee Chair Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone said during his visit to the Novo Selo training area on Tuesday. The Admiral is visiting Bulgaria at the invitation of the Chief of Defence, Admiral Emil Eftimov.
During his visit, Cavo Dragone emphasized the crucial role of the Bulgarian Armed Forces in NATO operations.
He said that Bulgarian armed forces are vital to the peacekeeping mission in Kosovo as well as NATO's mission in Iraq. Cavo Dragone expressed gratitude to Bulgaria as a highly valued ally for its contribution to collective security, including support for Ukraine through equipment and humanitarian aid.
He noted that he was impressed by the operational capabilities demonstrated during recent multinational exercises involving the NATO battlegroup. According to him, this is further proof of the Allies’ ability to respond effectively to modern threats.
Referring to the recent NATO Summit in The Hague, Admiral Cavo Dragone underlined that key and historic decisions had been made, including the agreement for Member States to invest 5% of their GDP in defence. He stressed that this will not only strengthen security but also create jobs.
He also highlighted the unity of the Allies in supporting Ukraine - they reaffirmed their commitment by pledging EUR 35 billion this year with more to follow.
Regarding global challenges, he highlighted Russia's deepening ties with North Korea, Iran, and China, as well as the ongoing threat of terrorism.
When asked by journalists about the development of the multinational battlegroup in Bulgaria, Admiral Cavo Dragone noted significant progress and expressed confidence that the battlegroup could be upgraded to brigade level.
Chief of Defence Admiral Emil Eftimov pointed out that Admiral Cavo Dragone's visit outlines Bulgaria's growing role in NATO's deterrence and defence efforts.
“Bulgaria fully supports the new Allied commitment to increase defence spending to 5% of GDP by 2035. For us, this is a crucial milestone that will contribute to building NATO’s defence capabilities,” Admiral Eftimov said.
He emphasized that these investments go beyond military modernization, having a direct impact on the development of national infrastructure, the defence industry, and the creation of new jobs. Eftimov highlighted that increasing defence spending is a long-term strategy for investing in the country’s security, economy, and future.
Bulgaria’s key geostrategic position plays a significant role in strengthening the Alliance's defence potential in the region and close cooperation with Romania and Turkiye provides for freedom of navigation and maritime security.
Bulgaria is already establishing a multinational divisional headquarters, which will be part of NATO's force structure.
"Our country will take on the command and control of formations on our territory," the Chief of Defence said. Additionally, a regional Special Forces command is being established with Romania, which will be integrated into NATO's special operations command structure.
"The multinational battlegroup reflects the Alliance's readiness and determination to defend every inch of Allied territory," said Eftimov, adding that "the Bulgarian Armed Forces remain fully committed to contributing to NATO’s regional plans, with national plans completely synchronized with them."
At the Novo Selo Training Area, Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone observed the activities of the NATO Multinational Battlegroup, led by framework nation Italy, and viewed a static display of the unit’s equipment and weaponry.
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