site.btaGERB Chair Borissov, US Official Christopher Smith Discuss Bilateral Agenda in Sofia

GERB Chair Boyko Borissov and US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Europe and Eurasia Christopher Smith discussed key issues on the bilateral agenda at a meeting in Sofia, including energy, security, technology, economic cooperation and regional stability.

Borissov said the talks highlighted the strategic nature of relations between the two countries, based on trust, shared goals and consistent partnership. Smith is visiting Bulgaria for the third session of the Bulgaria–US Strategic Dialogue.

The meeting was also attended by Bulgaria’s Foreign Minister Georgi Georgiev and Energy Minister Zhecho Stankov.

Borissov said Bulgaria’s inclusion in the US Visa Waiver Program remains a long-standing national priority closely followed by the public. He said that Bulgaria has made significant progress in recent years and maintains excellent cooperation between Bulgarian and US institutions, adding that the country is ready to continue all necessary steps to achieve the long-awaited decision as soon as possible.

Energy security was another key topic. Borissov voiced gratitude for the US government’s decision to issue a six-month general license for transactions involving Lukoil’s companies in Bulgaria and confirmed Bulgaria’s commitment to a long-term, sustainable solution to guarantee secure energy supplies for the country and the region.

The sides also discussed progress on diversification projects, including the development of gas infrastructure, the Vertical Gas Corridor and strategic cooperation in nuclear energy using US technologies.

Further talks covered strengthening cooperation in cybersecurity, strategic communications and the defence industry.