site.btaDefence Minister Zapryanov: EU Must Maintain Consistent Diplomatic Position to Remain Reliable Factor in Global Security

The continuation of military support for Ukraine and the integration of its defence industry into the EU’s Defence Technological and Industrial Base were the main topics of a meeting of the European Union’s Foreign Affairs Council in the format of defence ministers. The forum was held on February 11 and was attended by Defence Atanas Zapryanov.

The European Commission expressed satisfaction with Ukraine’s inclusion in the investment plans of fifteen of the beneficiary countries under the SAFE instrument. Ideas were presented for supporting Ukraine through funding from the European Investment Bank. The possibilities for the country’s participation in other EU defense initiatives were also discussed.

“The rapid and effective association of Ukraine with the relevant initiatives, including the European Defence Industry Programme, SAFE, the European Defence Fund, and the future EU Competitiveness Fund, remains indispensable for European security. We must leverage Ukraine’s innovation capacity and combat experience,” Minister Zapryanov said in his address to the forum.

Regarding the rules for spending the military assistance portion of the loan to Ukraine for 2026–2027, Bulgaria advocated for flexibility and speed to enable Ukraine to urgently acquire defence equipment for its immediate needs, both from the Ukrainian and European defense markets and if necessary from third countries.

During a working dinner on the strategic outlook for 2026, EU defence ministers discussed the challenges facing the Union’s defense readiness, the implementation of the White Paper on European Defence Readiness, and the initiatives outlined in its Roadmap. In his remarks, Minister Zapryanov stressed the importance placed on protecting EU’s air, maritime, and land borders, with a focus on the eastern flank and the Black Sea region. He highlighted the role of EU's new instruments in supporting the development of defence capabilities, including SAFE, the European Defence Industry Programme, and others.

Minister Zapryanov drew special attention to the new legislative package on military mobility, expressing expectations for substantial European funding for dual-use infrastructure within the new Multiannual Financial Framework (2028–2035).

The strategic importance for military mobility of Pan-European Corridor No. 8 was also highlighted, as well as the development of transport corridors along the south–north axis.

“The European Union must deepen its cooperation in security and defence with key like-minded partners and maintain a clear and consistent diplomatic position in order to remain a reliable factor in global security,” Minister Zapryanov told his colleagues.

The Foreign Affairs/Defence Council adopted executive decisions giving the green light for the implementation of the first eight national investment plans under the SAFE instrument, including the plan submitted by Bulgaria.