President Radev: Europe's Security Depends on Taking Greater Responsibility and Advancing Defence Capabilities

Risida Dimitrova, Nikolay Trifonov

President Rumen Radev, Sofia, September 17, 2025 (BTA Photo/Nikola Uzunov)

Sofia,

17.09.2025 11:30

(BTA)

Ensuring peace and security in Europe depends on taking greater responsibility for collective defence and developing capabilities to counter potential threats, President Rumen Radev said at a defence and security technology forum in Sofia on Wednesday. The event was organized by the Czech Embassy in Sofia.

Radev said this requires significant increase in investments in the development of modern defence capabilities.

"Replenishing conventional weapon stockpiles is important, but advancing new technologies is equally crucial. The war in Ukraine has demonstrated the need for these capabilities. Initially, ammunition and armoured vehicles were the main priorities, and they remain significant. However, attention has increasingly shifted toward modern technologies that offer a high asymmetric advantage," Radev said.

“This war is providing new and valuable lessons, demanding a dynamic shift in how we approach military technology and organize defence production. To be successful, we must first overcome the deep fragmentation in European defence science and industry. We need broad pan-European cooperation to address critical capability gaps," Radev said.

He also noted the intensifying and expanding nature of the war in Ukraine, which is unfolding in the heart of Europe. "Our strategic ally, the United States, is increasingly turning its focus toward the Indo-Pacific, in line with the global geopolitical shifts," he added.

Radev praised the Czech defence sector for its global reputation for quality and reliability. He also highlighted Bulgaria's long-standing presence and expertise.

"Bulgaria has a rich tradition and strong presence on international markets. We are among the European leaders in the production of ammunition and light weapons. Furthermore, Bulgarian companies are successfully expanding their portfolios by developing new technologies."

He recalled the historic ties between the two nations, noting that the Czech state supported Bulgaria in several key areas after its liberation in 1878, contributing significantly to its development.

"Today, our bilateral relations, especially in the economic sphere, are exceptionally dynamic. Czechia is among Bulgaria's leading economic and trade partners. Bilateral trade continues to grow, and Czech investments in Bulgaria are expanding across multiple sectors," Radev said. All conditions are in place to continue this successful cooperation, including in the defence industry, he concluded.

/KT/