Within the framework of an official diplomatic mission, Bulgarian Minister of Energy Zhecho Stankov held a series of strategic meetings in Washington, demonstrating the country's ambitious foreign policy course in the field of energy security.
A central moment in the diplomatic visit was the discussions at the White House with high-ranking American officials, including David Copley - special advisor to the presidential administration, and Jarod Agen - head of the National Council for Energy Dominance.
A key focus of the discussions was the potential for diversification of energy supplies through the introduction of liquefied natural gas (LNG) on a regional scale. Minister Stankov emphatically underscored Bulgaria's aspiration to establish itself as a key factor in energy security in Southeastern Europe.
Among the priority topics were the plans for modernization of the Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant. Stankov presented details regarding the construction of new capacities, with special emphasis on the innovative AP1000 technology by Westinghouse, which will be the first of its kind on a European scale.
Another significant moment of the negotiations was the discussion of administrative challenges facing large-scale energy projects. The Bulgarian delegation insisted on consistent support from the American side, pointing to the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) as a potential strategic partner for long-term financing.
An extremely important element of the diplomatic mission was the discussion around critical minerals and their importance for energy independence. The two sides outlined significant potential for cooperation across the entire chain - from exploration and extraction to processing of rare earth materials.
Minister Stankov's working visit demonstrated Bulgaria's desire to position the country as a reliable and innovative partner in the international energy space, with a clear vision for technological development and diversification of energy supplies.
The negotiations reinforced the strategic importance of transatlantic cooperation and confirmed Bulgaria's ambitions to be an active participant in global energy transformations.