During an official meeting at the Ministry of Defense, Minister Atanas Zapryanov welcomed a high-ranking delegation from Turkey, led by the Chairman of the National Defense Commission Hulusi Akar. The diplomatic meeting was focused on key issues related to strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two neighboring countries.
Zapryanov emphasized the exceptional importance of the political dialogue between Bulgaria and Turkey, highlighting mutual respect and good neighborly relations as a fundamental basis. "Our partnership covers multiple strategic areas – from defense and security to economy and tourism," the minister stated.
As NATO member countries, Bulgaria and Turkey share common concerns regarding current international conflicts, including the war between Russia and Ukraine and tensions in the Middle East. The two countries demonstrated a unified position regarding the need for collective actions to guarantee regional security.
Special emphasis was placed on joint mine-clearing activities in the Black Sea. Minister Zapryanov highlighted the importance of the Mine Countermeasures Group, which unites the efforts of three Black Sea countries – Bulgaria, Romania, and Turkey. "This format proves that only through coordinated actions can we effectively protect our common interests," he emphasized.
For his part, Hulusi Akar confirmed Turkey's readiness to deepen bilateral cooperation. He noted the continuous improvement in interstate relations, especially in terms of military interaction.
During the meeting, they also discussed prospects for modernization of the armed forces, the need for modern defense solutions, and the strategic importance of stability in the Western Balkans.
The diplomatic meeting was also attended by the Chief of Defense Admiral Emil Eftimov, Deputy Minister Radostin Iliev, Brigadier General Lyubomir Monov, the Deputy Chairman of the Turkish Parliamentary Commission Refik Özen, and the Turkish Ambassador to Bulgaria Mehmet Sait Uyanık.
The two countries demonstrated a categorical will to continue and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in all areas of mutual interest, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and partnership between neighboring NATO member states.