Foreign Minister Gabriel: Bulgaria and the UK are strategic partners for security, development and innovation

At the invitation of Bulgaria’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mariya Gabriel, the United Kingdom's Foreign Secrtary, David Cameron, paid a working visit to Sofia, the Foreign Ministry said on February 14.

"Our meeting was a good opportunity to build on our strategic partnership in key areas of added value for the citizens of both countries. Bulgaria and the United Kingdom are strategic partners and NATO allies. As such, we share common values and together seek solutions to regional and global challenges," said Mariya Gabriel.

The focus of the discussion was Bulgaria's strategic position in NATO regarding the Eastern flank, security and stability in the Black Sea region and support for Ukraine - financial, military, humanitarian, diplomatic and political.

Cooperation in the fight against illegal migration and human trafficking were also mentioned as good examples of effective bilateral interaction between Bulgaria and the UK.

"We highly value our excellent cooperation through the joint police operations and joint investigation teams implemented in the fight against illegal migration," the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs said.

Bulgaria and the UK will also build on their cooperation in combating disinformation and increasing resilience against hybrid threats.

Mariya Gabriel thanked for the UK's continued support for our country's membership in the OECD. During the discussion, the foreign ministers also focused on economic cooperation with the UK - in trade, investment, innovation and expanding business opportunities in high-tech industries.

Images by Ministry of Foreign Affairs

"We have good examples, but it is important that we continue to explore the potential for investment and economic cooperation. The themes of innovation, science, education, artificial intelligence and high technology send a strong message to the new generation of innovators in both countries. I welcome the UK's association with Horizon Europe, the world's largest science and innovation programme. This provides an opportunity for the scientific communities of both countries to continue to build on a long tradition of collaboration and joint projects," Mariya Gabriel concluded.