site.btaUPDATED Foreign Minister Gabriel, UK Counterpart Sign Joint Declaration on New UK-Bulgaria Strategic Partnership

Bulgarian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mariya Gabriel and British Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs James Cleverly signed a joint declaration on a new UK-Bulgaria Strategic Partnership, her Ministry said here on Tuesday.

"The declaration is a result of our active work with our British partners over the past few months. It embodies the strong ambition of the two countries for even closer cooperation in a number of key areas: foreign policy, security and defence policy, justice and home affairs, bilateral economic and trade cooperation, technology, science, health, education, culture and environment", Gabriel explained.

She added that she stressed the importance of research, innovation and education. "They are a key area of the strategic partnership. We will work with the UK to increase academic mobility. One of the objectives is the mutual recognition of national documents certifying completed levels of school and higher education," Gabriel pointed out.

"The UK and Bulgaria are strong friends and partners. From our joint work tackling illegal migration and serious organized crime, to our unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression. This strategic partnership cements our commitment to strengthening our cooperation in areas like trade, education and technology, which will help to grow both of our economies," Cleverly stated, cited by gov.uk.    

During their meeting the Foreign Ministers emphasized the need to continue to support Ukraine to defend itself against Russian aggression and restore security in the Black Sea region, the UK government's website reported. UK and Bulgaria have signed a joint declaration to expand defence and security ties, tackling Russian disinformation and organized immigration crime, the statement reads. 

Earlier on Tuesday, Gabriel announced that she was paying a working visit to London, after visiting Ireland earlier in the day to attend the Global Ireland Summit.