Temenuzhka Petkova: 'Progressive Bulgaria' must guarantee the Rheinmetall plant

A critical moment for the defense industry

GERB MP Temenuzhka Petkova issued a sharp call to "Progressive Bulgaria" to find the necessary financial resources for the realization of the German company Rheinmetall's plant. According to her, the project is of strategic importance not only for the country but for the entire European Union.

"If this project fails, they will be to blame," commented Petkova regarding the statements made by Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Pulev about the lack of finalized agreements.

Steps taken and financial framework

Petkova recalled that during the government of Rosen Zhelyazkov, the foundations were laid through concluded agreements and acquired know-how. Key parameters of the investment include:

• 260 million euros for the state-owned company under the Ministry of Economy.
• 407 million euros for the joint venture between VMZ and Rheinmetall.
• 43 million euros already paid for technology transfer and know-how.

Position on the budget

Although "Progressive Bulgaria" has allocated 47 million euros in the medium-term budget forecast for 2026, GERB insists on a more definitive position. The party demands a clear answer as to whether the ruling authorities intend to complete this large-scale defense project or allow it to fail.