site.btaPM Zhelyazkov: Bulgaria as Black Sea Country Prioritizes Providing Security

After a tour at the VMZ ordnance plant in Sopot on Sunday, Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov told a press conference that the European Commission's (EC) White Paper for European Defence and the European Safe security mechanism are the prerequisites that, since the beginning of this year, have provided clear prospects for the development of industrial defence capabilities, which for Bulgaria means technology transfer and many opportunities that will increase the competitiveness of the Bulgarian economy.

Zhelyazkov added: "As a Black Sea country, it is important for us to provide all security guarantees." He toured the plant with EC President Ursula von der Leyen, Defence Minister Atanas Zapryanov, Minister of Economy and Industry Peter Dilov, and GERB-UDF leader Boyko Borissov.

Zhelyazkov reported that von der Leyen was briefed on the prospects of Bulgarian industry in the context of strengthening the EU's defence capabilities in partnership with NATO. The prospects for the European defence industry and the need for its development are predetermined by the need to develop Europe's defence capacity, the Prime Minister said and added that security guarantees are needed, especially in the military doctrines of the Russian Federation.

Bulgaria's contribution to security guarantees in the maritime domain, in line with the EU's Black Sea strategy, will be to continue anti-mine operations to ensure freedom of navigation, the Prime Minister said. He reported that Bulgaria is ready to do so with two anti-mine ships and supporting vessels. The country will also contribute by providing airport infrastructure. Other opportunities will become relevant once a political decision is reached and the ceasefire is in place. Zhelyazkov concluded: "We are bound by the framework of the decisions of the National Assembly, but we will be a loyal partner and ally, so that the EU's goals for a stronger and more sustainable union, and a union that will deter any aggression, can be achieved."