Bulgaria's inclusion in the US Visa Waiver Program is a long-standing national priority, which is monitored with great sensitivity by Bulgarian citizens. Bulgaria has made significant progress in recent years, as well as excellent cooperation between Bulgarian institutions and the US side. Our country is ready to continue implementing all necessary steps to achieve this solution expected by Bulgarians as soon as possible.
This was written on his personal Facebook page by GERB leader Boyko Borisov, who met at the party headquarters with Christopher Smith, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Europe and Eurasia, who is visiting our country in connection with the third session of the Strategic Dialogue between Bulgaria and the US. The meeting was attended by Georg Georgiev, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Zhecho Stankov, Minister of Energy. Here is what Borisov also shared:
"We discussed the key topics on the bilateral agenda - energy, security, technology, economic cooperation and regional stability. I emphasized the strategic nature of the relations between our two countries, based on trust, shared goals and consistent partnership.
The focus of the conversation was cooperation in the field of energy security. I expressed gratitude for the decision of the US government to issue a 6-month general license for the transactions of “Lukoil“ companies in Bulgaria. I confirmed our commitment to a long-term and sustainable solution that guarantees the security of energy supplies for the country and the region. We also discussed progress on key diversification projects, including the development of gas infrastructure, the Vertical Gas Corridor, and strategic cooperation in nuclear energy with American technology.
The acquisition of new F-16 Block 70 aircraft, Stryker armored vehicles, and active joint exercises are important steps to enhance our combat capabilities and strengthen NATO's Eastern Flank. We also discussed deepening the partnership in cybersecurity, strategic communications, and the defense industry.