See, for years, Bulgarians have wondered what our country's role in NATO is and why all our prime ministers insist on repeating the mantra about the Eastern Flank. Here is one answer, based on the latest visit of a high-ranking representative of the Alliance.
Tensions in the region are growing, and Bulgaria is at the center of events.
Bulgaria — A Key Pillar of NATO in the Black Sea Region
SOFIA — Bulgaria is affirming its role as a key pillar in NATO's collective defense, especially on the strategic Eastern Flank and in the Black Sea region. This was made clear during the meeting between Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov and NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Shekerinska. The conversation, held at the Council of Ministers, underscored Sofia's commitment to allied decisions and the ongoing modernization of the armed forces.
The government's press service announced that the discussion focused on Bulgaria's active role in the Alliance as a guarantee of national security and a way to enhance defense capabilities. During the meeting, which had an atmosphere of mutual recognition and cooperation, Prime Minister Zhelyazkov confirmed that the country strictly adheres to all decisions from the Hague Summit. It was there, with Zhelyazkov's personal participation, that decisions were made to strengthen deterrence and defense on the Eastern Flank, especially in the Black Sea region, increase defense investments, continue collective support for Ukraine, and strengthen partnerships.
From 2% to 5% of GDP for Defense
NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Shekerinska expressed high praise for Bulgaria's consistency within the Alliance.
"Bulgaria has consistently been among the allies in the Alliance who, with their consistent actions, defend and strengthen its unity", she stated.Shekerinska also noted the significant potential of the Bulgarian defense industry, highlighting as a positive example the new initiatives related to the SAFE mechanism, as well as the recently announced contract with the German company Rheinmetall.
Prime Minister Zhelyazkov emphasized that Bulgaria has already reached over 2% of its GDP for defense spending, which is one of NATO's main requirements for member states. According to him, there is also broad political consensus for a gradual increase of this share to 5% of GDP by 2035. He also highlighted the large-scale modernization projects currently underway, including the acquisition of modern weapon systems for the three branches of the armed forces. These include the Striker armored fighting vehicles and two multipurpose modular patrol vessels for the Navy. Furthermore, the Prime Minister announced that the delivery of F-16 fighter jets has begun, and work is underway to acquire artillery and high-mobility missile systems, 3D radars, and air, missile, and coastal defense systems.
Black Sea and Western Balkans — Areas of Heightened Risk
The meeting also focused on the strategic importance of the Black Sea region, where Bulgaria actively contributes to NATO's deterrence and defense posture. As an example of successful cooperation, Zhelyazkov pointed to the multinational battlegroup on Bulgarian territory, led by Italy, with contributions from several allied countries, including the Republic of North Macedonia. A special group for mine countermeasures in the Black Sea was also recognized for its contribution to the security and freedom of navigation in the region, which continues to be an area of heightened tension.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of Pan-European Corridor VIII, which connects the Adriatic Sea with the Black Sea, as vital not only for the military mobility of NATO and the EU but also for the economic growth of the region, including the Western Balkans. Zhelyazkov expressed his expectation that the allies will fulfill their commitments on the project without delay, which is an indicator of its critical importance.
In the context of the ongoing unstable situation, Prime Minister Zhelyazkov expressed concern about the situation in the Western Balkans, marked by political polarization, inter-ethnic tension, and institutional deficit. He noted that these challenges are further exacerbated by malicious influence and hybrid activities, often related to attempts at destabilization by external factors. The Prime Minister emphasized that it is crucial to strengthen strategic communication both through NATO and bilaterally. He assured that Bulgaria remains committed to peace in the region, continuing its contribution to the KFOR and EUFOR-Althea missions.
Support for Ukraine and Shekerinska's Visit
Future security guarantees for Ukraine were also discussed. Zhelyazkov was adamant that they must include sustainable support from both European and transatlantic partners. He expressed Bulgaria's readiness to contribute to these guarantees, for example, through joint mine countermeasure operations within the Mine Countermeasure Group in the Black Sea and by providing airspace and support for coalition forces. The Prime Minister highly praised NATO's leading role in the PURL initiative, which facilitates the provision of American military equipment to Ukraine.
Radmila Shekerinska's visit is part of the Alliance's 20th exercise on emergency management, which will take place in Bulgaria from September 7-12. It is organized jointly by NATO's Euro-Atlantic Disaster Response Coordination Centre and the Ministry of Interior's "Fire Safety and Population Protection" General Directorate.
Just a few days ago, NATO announced that Shekerinska would visit the country on September 7 and 8 to hold several bilateral meetings. The Deputy Secretary General's program includes a visit to the soldiers of the NATO Multinational Battlegroup at Novo Selo base and observing the "Bulgaria 2025" exercise at the First Aid Professional Training Center in Montana. She will also deliver a speech at the Atlantic Club, where she is expected to re-emphasize Bulgaria's key role in the architecture of European security.