Information, its credibility, reliable storage and timely transfer are of key importance for the development of Bulgarian society and economy. This is what Head of State Rumen Radev said at a meeting with visiting representatives of United Group, the leading telecommunications and media company in Southeast Europe, which operates in Bulgaria. Victoriya Boklag, CEO of the group, Zeljko Batistic, Vice President, Miriam Di Traglia, Executive Director Compliance, Risk & Sustainability, and Nikolay Andreev, CEO of the telecommunications operator Vivacom, part of United Group, took part in the talks. Among the participants in the meeting was the polar researcher and environmental leader Robert Swan in connection with United Group's plans to invest in the field of renewable energy.

 

During the meeting, the President stressed the need to improve the digital infrastructure in the country, the prospects for the construction of large data centres, as well as investments in the field of cybersecurity. The participants in the talks highlighted the investment advantages our country has, including its strategic geographic location and educated young people. Rumen Radev also pointed out the potential of innovative companies that are already operating in the country and creating a favourable environment in the field of communications and high technologies. There was a common position on the need for stability and predictability in the actions of the state authorities in the interest of attracting more investments in the country.

 

The representatives of United Group briefed the Head of State on the company's ambitions to implement renewable energy projects in the country in order to limit carbon emissions - three photovoltaic plants and an onshore wind power project. With an initial investment of 120 million euro, the power projects are expected to be operational by 2027, provide 160% of the Group's electricity needs for its operations in the country and meet 65% of its total electricity consumption. The meeting also discussed the key importance for the future of our country to build renewable energy storage infrastructure.

 

Researcher Robert Swann shared insights from his polar expeditions to the North and South Poles and highlighted the need for decisive action on climate change. The President pointed out that polar research provides valuable information both for studying the past and for gaining knowledge useful in making decisions for the future. Rumen Radev stressed the contribution of Bulgarian scientists at our St Kliment Ohridski base on Livingstone Island, who are currently conducting the 33rd National Antarctic Expedition.