Energy has a key place in our strategic dialogue with the US. We are strongly committed to further deepening cooperation with the US in the field of nuclear energy for civil purposes, to creating a more sustainable energy market, to strengthening Bulgaria's role as a regional energy hub and to creating even more opportunities for business on 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 United States, which is being held at the Council of Ministers, BTA reports.
The session was attended by the US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Europe and Eurasia Christopher Smith, who is visiting our country in connection with the third session of the Strategic Dialogue.
We have set ambitious goals in the field of energy cooperation with a special emphasis on nuclear energy for civilian purposes. Bulgaria has made significant progress in diversifying its energy sector, reducing its dependence on Russian energy resources, Zhelyazkov also noted.
The Prime Minister emphasized that Bulgaria and the United States are “close friends, trusted partners and allies“ who share a common commitment to regional and global peace and security, sustainable economic growth and the development of bilateral relations. He pointed out that our country places special focus on expanding cooperation in all areas and building on the strategic partnership.
Zhelyazkov defined cooperation in the field of security and defense as the foundation of the strategic partnership, highly appreciating the US support for the modernization of the Bulgarian armed forces. He recalled the acquisition of F-16 Block 70 fighters, the purchase of Stryker combat vehicles and participation in the NATO Multinational Battle Group in Bulgaria.
In his speech, the Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of innovation and new technologies for economic growth, indicating that the third session of the Strategic Dialogue will discuss opportunities for projects in the field of high-performance information infrastructure and technology centers.
Zhelyazkov stated that Bulgaria remains determined to maintain the security of its borders and to continue cooperation with the United States on the visa-free travel program through the exchange of information and security measures. “I believe that we will achieve progress in all key areas and open a new, even more ambitious chapter in our strategic partnership“, the Prime Minister concluded and wished a fruitful discussion.