We have excellent bilateral relations with Italy. We need to increase trade. Our ambition is to start serious work on infrastructure projects, as well as joint projects in the field of the defense industry. This was stated by Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov to the media after the end of his meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Zhelyazkov pointed out that for this purpose, the enhanced interaction of Bulgarian and Italian business is important. The Prime Minister emphasized the various options under European policies for industrial cooperation in the field of defense.
The future multiannual financial framework of the EU, which begins to be discussed this year, was also among the topics that Zhelyazkov and Meloni discussed during their meeting today. The Prime Minister emphasized Bulgaria's position regarding the cohesion and common agricultural policies. According to Zhelyazkov, it is important to preserve the cohesion policy, taking into account the regional characteristics of the individual member states. The Prime Minister also emphasized that the cohesion policy should not be harmed for the sake of European defense, but that new sources of financing and engagement of the private defense industry should be sought, attracting resources beyond the budget.
The war in Ukraine was also discussed at the meeting of Prime Ministers Rosen Zhelyazkov and Giorgia Meloni. The Bulgarian Prime Minister highlighted the possibility of the Holy See mediating in the search for a ceasefire. According to Zhelyazkov, it is also important that the US role on the issue remains active. The Bulgarian Prime Minister also emphasized support for Ukraine and the need to continue assistance to Kiev.