site.btaBulgaria Is Strongly Committed to Peace, Stability, Prosperity in Western Balkans, Chief of Defence Eftimov Says

Bulgarian Chief of Defence Emil Eftimov Tuesday said that peace, stability and prosperity in the Western Balkans are the centre of attention for the EU and NATO. "Bulgaria is strongly committed to this process and the Bulgarian Armed Forces - to the security and stability in the region", he added. Eftimov was speaking at a welcoming ceremony for the servicepersons of the Bulgarian contingent in the EU's Althea military operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina who returned home. The ceremony took place at the Vasil Levski Square in the town of Karlovo (Central Bulgaria), the Defence Ministry said.

Admiral Eftimov was adamant that this country follows a consistent, proactive and responsible policy towards the Western Balkans, which is implemented through political, economic and diplomatic means.

"Your presence and that of your colleagues from allied European countries is a strong argument and tool for conflict prevention and the preservation of peace and stability," Eftimov addressed the servicepersons. He welcomed them and stressed that they had fulfilled the tasks expected of them. "You have shown professionalism and character. You were responsible and vigilant, you acted operationally, in accordance with the situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina," the Chief of Defence said.