Bulgaria fully supports the new commitment to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP by 2035. For us, this is a key step in our national and collective plan to build effective capabilities within NATO.

This was stated by Chief of Defense Admiral Emil Efimov during a press conference with the Chairman of the Alliance's Military Committee, Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, who visited the Novo Selo training ground.

Admiral Dragone familiarized himself with the activities of the NATO Multinational Battle Group with Italy as the framework nation, hosted by Bulgaria, as well as a static display of the allied formation's weapons and equipment.

Increased defense spending will have a direct impact not only on the modernization of the Bulgarian army, but also on the development of national infrastructure, the defense industry, and job creation.

Admiral Eftimov noted Bulgaria's key geostrategic location and the country's significant contribution to strengthening the Alliance's defense capabilities in the Black Sea region.

Bulgaria maintains close cooperation with Romania and Turkey on Black Sea security.

For his part, the Chairman of the NATO Military Committee emphasized Bulgaria's importance in the context of growing threats. He noted our country's contribution to common security and the support provided to Ukraine since the beginning of the war.

"In the face of the growing threats we face—Russia's ties with North Korea, Iran, and China, as well as terrorism—our commitment to deter and defend the Alliance and protect one billion people remains our top priority. And Bulgaria is a clear example of our determination and resilience. You are sending a clear message that we are here to defend every inch of our Alliance's territory," Admiral Dragone said. І BGNES