The active participation of the Bulgarian defence industry will strengthen the capabilities of the EU and NATO, said Iliana Iotova at a meeting with the NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe, General Alexus Grynkewich

Against the backdrop of the dynamically changing global security environment, the Black Sea region and NATO's Eastern Flank are gaining ever greater strategic importance, and Bulgaria's role in strengthening collective defence is becoming increasingly significant. This requires us to encourage the active involvement of the Bulgarian defence industry in increasing the capacity of the European military industry. This was stated by President Iliana Iotova at a meeting with the NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe, General Alexus Grynkewich. The meeting was attended by the Minister of Defence Dimitar Stoyanov and the Chief of Defence Admiral Emil Eftimov. 

President Iotova emphasised that the European Union is in a period of rethinking its strategic autonomy and the role of the European pillar in the Alliance's common security. The Head of State highlighted the importance of the European initiative "ReArm Europe" and its SAFE instrument, in which our country participates with projects, and added that they should be considered within the framework of strengthening NATO's collective defence. Iliana Iotova noted that the strengthening of defence capabilities must be planned in good coordination between the countries and provided with the necessary logistics. Bulgaria contributes to collective defence in accordance with its commitments as an ally, the President said, noting the potential of the Bulgarian defence industry given its long-standing traditions and innovative capabilities.

Iotova also emphasised the need to improve connectivity in the region, highlighting Corridor VIII, the construction of "Danube Bridge 3" and the Vertical Gas Corridor, on which Bulgaria is actively working.  According to her, every project that improves relations between countries is also important for ensuring the security of Europe. 

The visit of General Grynkewich takes place on the eve of the upcoming NATO Summit, which, according to the head of state, emphasises the importance of our country for the Alliance. Iliana Iotova expressed her expectation that at the forum, which will be held on July 7 and 8 in Ankara, workable decisions will be made on NATO's long-term vision, which will take into account the specifics and interests of individual allies and the dynamics in the global security environment.