Bulgaria and the USA confirmed the deepening of their strategic partnership and the elevation of their bilateral relations to an even higher level at the Third Session of the Strategic Dialogue in Sofia.
The USA is an important strategic partner for Bulgaria. Over the years, our bilateral relations have developed extremely dynamically and in a spirit of mutual trust and partnership. Much has been achieved so far, but there is still much potential for development. This was stated by the Minister of Economy and Industry, Petar Dilov, during the Third Session of the Strategic Dialogue between Bulgaria and the USA, which took place at the Council of Ministers.
The US delegation was led by Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Europe and Eurasia Christopher Smith, and the Bulgarian delegation by Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov. From the Bulgarian side, the Minister of Foreign Affairs Georg Georgiev, the Minister of Energy Zhecho Stankov, the Minister of Interior Daniel Mitov, and the Minister of Defence Atanas Zapryanov also took part.
In his statement during the panel dedicated to “Cooperation in the Field of Security and Defence,” Minister Dilov pointed out that with the aim of strengthening defence-industrial cooperation between the countries, Bulgaria is ready to work with partners from the United States to modernize existing lines, develop new technologies, and increase production capacity in support of European and allied capabilities.
According to him, the core of the Bulgarian army’s new capabilities is being acquired from the USA, and it is important to find ways to increase cooperation between the defence industries of the two countries in the maintenance of these capabilities, which would allow Bulgaria to play the role of a regional hub in this area.
Dilov highlighted that the Ministry of Economy and Industry strives to maintain a constant dialogue with the defence sector, recognizing its importance for both security and defence, as well as for the country’s economy.
“As a result of the joint cooperation between state institutions, business, and scientific organisations, companies in the sector have the opportunity to realize their investment projects aimed at expanding production capacity, implementing innovations, and increasing competitiveness,” he added.
The Economy Minister emphasised that in the future, the common goal must be clear: a reliable defence position based on a competitive, interconnected, and innovative industrial base.
“Bulgaria is ready to deepen its contribution — as a producer, as a partner, and as an ally,” he concluded.