Bulgaria supports increasing defense spending to 5% of GDP by 2035. This was assured by the Chief of Defense, Admiral Emil Eftimov, who welcomed the Chairman of the NATO Military Committee, Admiral Giuseppe Dragone, to our country.
Eftimov and Dragone visited the “Novo Selo“ training ground.
“Bulgaria's role is of paramount importance for the security of the Black Sea region and beyond - from the Western Balkans to the Middle East. We are also grateful for the large contribution of military equipment and humanitarian aid since the beginning of the war in Ukraine“, Admiral Dragone emphasized.
“As one of the frontline countries on NATO's Eastern flank, Bulgaria occupies a key geostrategic position and has made a significant contribution to strengthening the Alliance's defense potential in the region“, announced Admiral Eftimov.
He focused on the close cooperation with Romania and Turkey in the maritime domain to guarantee freedom of navigation and maritime security.
“As a host country, we are fully aware of our responsibility to provide conditions for the effective conduct of NATO operations, including the necessary infrastructure and logistical support for Allied forces. "We are proud to host the multinational battle group, in which Italy is a framework nation, supported by the commitment of a number of other allies," the Chief of Defense noted.