Energy occupies a leading place in the strategic dialogue between Bulgaria and the United States. Our country is firmly determined to continue deepening cooperation with the US in the field of civil nuclear energy, to create a more sustainable energy market, to strengthen its role as a regional energy center and to expand business opportunities for both sides of the Atlantic. This was stated by Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov at the opening of the third session of the Strategic Dialogue between Bulgaria and the USA, held in the Council of Ministers.
The meeting was also attended by the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State of the United States for Europe and Eurasia, Christopher Smith, who is visiting Bulgaria on the occasion of the third session of the dialogue.
"We have set ambitious goals in the field of energy cooperation, with the main focus being civil nuclear energy. Bulgaria has made significant progress in diversifying its energy sector, gradually reducing its dependence on Russian energy sources," Zhelyazkov also stressed.
The Prime Minister noted that Bulgaria and the United States are "close friends, reliable partners and allies", united by a shared commitment to regional and global peace, security, sustainable economic growth and the development of bilateral relations. He stressed that the government is paying special attention to strengthening cooperation in all areas and to the further development of the strategic partnership.
Zhelyazkov defined cooperation in the field of security and defense as the main pillar of the strategic partnership and expressed high appreciation for the support of the USA in the modernization of the Bulgarian armed forces. He recalled the acquisition of F-16 Block 70 fighters, the delivery of Stryker combat vehicles and the participation of our country in the Multinational Battle Group of NATO in Bulgaria.
In his speech, the Prime Minister also emphasized the importance of innovation and new technologies for economic development, noting that during the third session of the Strategic Dialogue, opportunities for projects in the field of high-performance information infrastructure and technology centers will be discussed.
Zhelyazkov confirmed that Bulgaria remains resolutely committed to ensuring the security of its borders and will continue cooperation with the US on the visa-free program, including information exchange and security measures. "I am convinced that we will make progress in all key sectors and open a new, even more ambitious stage in our strategic partnership," the Prime Minister said in conclusion, wishing a fruitful discussion.