site.btaBulgaria Is First EU Member State Engaged in Strategic Dialogue with US under President Trump's Administration - Minister Georgiev

Bulgaria is the first EU Member State with which the United States has held a strategic dialogue under the current administration of President Donald Trump, Foreign Minister Georg Georgiev said Tuesday in his welcoming remarks to Christopher Smith, US Deputy Assistant Secretary for Eastern Europe and Policy and Regional Affairs in the Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs. Georgiev spoke during the third session of the Bulgaria–US Strategic Dialogue at the Council of Ministers building.

In Georgiev's words, this reflects both the strategic nature of bilateral relations and the high degree of trust and closeness between the two countries. The Minister recalled that when the current format was launched in January 2020, Bulgaria and the United States made an important commitment to expand their strategic partnership and strengthen cooperation in key areas to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Balkans and across Europe.

He noted that the results delivered over the past five years clearly demonstrate the potential and opportunities within the bilateral relationship. "Today, Bulgaria and the US are closer than ever as friends, partners, and allies," the Foreign Minister said.

Georgiev noted that energy cooperation remains a key element of the strategic partnership, contributing to diversification and greater energy security in the region and throughout Europe. Bulgaria is firmly committed to working with the United States on joint projects in civil nuclear energy, including the development of AP1000 reactors. He added that Bulgaria has the ambition to be a leader in implementing advanced technologies that can deliver significant added value through cooperation between Bulgarian and US companies.

The Minister also pointed to the strengthening of defence capabilities as another key achievement in the strategic partnership. The acquisition of F-16 Block 70 fighter jets and Stryker armoured vehicles is identified as an important step forward and reflects the long-term US commitment to modernizing the Bulgarian Armed Forces and enhancing overall security.

He noted that the strategic dialogue began in a different global environment and that today both countries face a wide range of new challenges. Georgiev expressed confidence that the US delegation’s in-depth expertise and understanding of the region would contribute to productive discussions in the context of Russia’s war against Ukraine. He added that, thanks to President Trump’s leadership, there is a genuine opportunity to achieve a just and lasting peace that ensures Ukraine’s security.

The Foreign Minister stressed the importance of joint efforts to strengthen stability in the Black Sea region, including through enhanced NATO presence. He said that the strong bilateral ties between Bulgaria and the United States send a clear message about the importance of strategic partnership for maintaining peace and security.

Georgiev also welcomed the United States’ commitment to stability in the Western Balkans, as well as President Trump’s vision for peace in the Middle East. He highlighted Bulgaria’s long-standing dedication to bolstering border security and combating organized crime and terrorism.

Joining the US Visa Waiver Program remains a long-term national priority, the Minister said and expressed gratitude for the support of the US administration and the strong cooperation with the US Embassy in Sofia.

Georgiev said that expanding bilateral trade, attracting US investment in key sectors, and strengthening cooperation in innovation, artificial intelligence, research, and space technology are among Bulgaria’s strategic priorities.

"It is our responsibility to turn opportunities into reality through consistent effort and strong commitment," the Minister said, wishing success to the third session of the Strategic Dialogue and expressing hope for new goals the two governments will pursue together.