site.btaPM Zhelyazkov: Europe’s Defence Capacity Must Be Built Through Industrial and Technological Development

“This is the direction that lies ahead for both Europe and Bulgaria in the coming years – to build our defence capacity through industrial development, technological modernization, and know-how,” Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov said on Friday. He added that he and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who is expected in Bulgaria on Sunday, will visit the site designated for the construction of two factories in partnership with German company Rheinmetall.

In response to a question from BTA about his expectations for von der Leyen’s visit, the Prime Minister stated: “Her tour is not outcome-oriented. She will be visiting the seven countries that are in immediate proximity to the battlefield of the war between Ukraine and Russia. Bulgaria borders the Russian Federation via the Black Sea, and we have our own perspectives on the risks and challenges concerning our sovereignty and national security.”

The European Commission Representation in Bulgaria confirmed that Ursula von der Leyen will visit countries along the EU’s eastern border: Latvia, Finland, Estonia, Poland, Lithuania, Bulgaria, and Romania. The visit will underscore the EU’s support for member states facing the challenges posed by shared borders with Russia and Belarus. President von der Leyen is expected to discuss European security and defence with national leaders and military representatives.