Mariya Gabriel: Bulgaria and the UK are strategic partners for security, development and innovation
14 February 2024 News
At the invitation of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Mariya Gabriel, the UK Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs Lord David Cameron paid an working visit to Sofia.
‘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 UK are strategic partners and NATO allies. As such, we share common values and together seek solutions to regional and global challenges’, Mariya Gabriel said.
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 cooperation between Bulgaria and the UK. ‘We highly appreciate our excellent cooperation through the joint police operations and joint investigation teams in the fight against illegal migration,’ the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of 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 the economic cooperation with the UK — in trade, investment, innovation and expanding business opportunities in high-tech industries.
‘We have good examples, but it is important to continue to identify 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 gives the scientific communities of both countries the opportunity to continue to build on a long tradition of joint activities and common projects', Mariya Gabriel concluded.