The strategic partnership between Bulgaria and the US and the strengthening of bilateral ties in the areas of defense and energy were the focus of Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov's conversation with US House of Representatives Congressman Pat Fallon. During their meeting at the Council of Ministers, Prime Minister Zhelyazkov highlighted Bulgaria's consistent actions to maintain the upward trend in the partnership with the US and the efforts to achieve the common goal of global and regional peace, stability and prosperity.
Prime Minister Zhelyazkov recalled the successful Third Session of the Strategic Dialogue between Bulgaria and the US, which took place at the end of last year. The forum noted significant progress in the development of bilateral cooperation in key areas such as energy diversification, defense, security, trade and investment, and an agreement was also reached to elevate the strategic partnership to an even higher level.
Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov specifically emphasized cooperation in the field of security and defense. According to him, this is the backbone of the strategic partnership between Bulgaria and the United States. We highly appreciate the consistent support of the United States for the modernization of the Bulgarian Armed Forces and the acquisition of new capabilities, Zhelyazkov emphasized. The Prime Minister also noted that the implementation of joint projects in this strategic area is directly related to the implementation of Bulgaria's declared commitments regarding the NATO Capability Goal Packages.
Prime Minister Zhelyazkov also pointed out Bulgaria's efforts to strengthen national and regional energy security and connectivity in Southeast Europe. In his words, energy security has never been more important for economic growth, stability, sustainability and prosperity. It is in this context that the close cooperation with the US is aimed at ensuring diversified and sustainable energy supplies. Zhelyazkov confirmed our country's commitment to work together with the US for the successful implementation of the joint project for units 7 and 8 of the Kozloduy NPP with the American modern AP1000 technology of the Westinghouse company. This will strengthen Bulgaria's role as a regional energy hub and create excellent additional incentives for economic growth.
During the conversation, Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov also highlighted the importance of cooperation with the United States in the areas of new technologies and innovations, artificial intelligence, sustainability, connectivity, and the development of people-to-people contacts.
Zhelyazkov recalled that Bulgaria's inclusion in the US Visa Waiver Program is a long-standing national priority, around which there is a broad public and political consensus. As a result of the consistent and targeted efforts of Bulgarian institutions, in close and constructive cooperation with US partners, our country is reporting sustainable and clearly measurable progress in fulfilling the membership requirements. Just a few days ago, a new, lowest rate of refusals for tourist and business visas was announced, which is a key indicator within the Program. The process continues to develop actively.