Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova Participates in NATO Foreign Ministers Meeting in Sweden
22 May 2026 News
Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova participated in the meeting of NATO Ministers of Foreign Affairs, held on 21 – 22 May in Helsingborg, Sweden. A key focus of the discussions was the preparation for the forthcoming NATO Summit in Ankara in July this year, increasing defence spending, strengthening the defence industry and expanding production capacity.
The ministers also exchanged views on the ongoing war in Ukraine, as well as the evolving security situation in the wider Middle East region.
In her remarks, Minister Petrova emphasised that unity and solidarity among Allies are key to ensuring security and stability in an increasingly complex international environment. Bulgaria’s Foreign Minister highlighted the importance of strengthening the European contribution within NATO and underscored the need to continue efforts to enhance defence capabilities on the Alliance’s Eastern Flank.
Bulgaria’s top diplomat called for an increased focus on security, connectivity and freedom of navigation in the Black Sea region. Minister Petrova also underscored the important role of diplomacy in bringing the war in Ukraine to an end.
The Allies agreed on the need for predictable support for Ukraine and its fair distribution among Allies.
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha also participated in the session of the NATO – Ukraine Council.
On the sidelines of the forum, Minister Petrova held a number of bilateral meetings with representatives of the United States, Canada, Ukraine, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, the Republic of North Macedonia, Estonia and Portugal. Current international and regional issues, as well as prospects for further cooperation in the field of security and defence, were discussed during the talks.