site.btaDefence Minister Calls for Significant Increase of Industrial Production Capacity in Europe

Caretaker Defence Minister Atanas Zapryanov Tuesday took part in a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs/Defence Council in Brussels, Zapryanov's ministry reported. Addressing the meeting, he said Bulgaria remains committed to the EU's common efforts and confirms its strong support for Ukraine. He called for a significant increase of the industrial production capacity in Europe and filling up the arms and ammunition reserves.

The EU defence ministers discussed support for Ukraine and EU defence readiness. 

In his speech, Zapryanov expressed support for the EU's continued military support for Ukraine. He acquainted the participants in the meeting with the aid provided by Bulgaria and said it will continue in the future. He underscored the role of the Ukraine Assistance Fund for the continuation of supplies in response to Ukraine's urgent needs. Zapryanov also underscored the importance of the EU's long-term commitments to Ukraine in security and defence, which will contribute to the country's strengthening and resilience in the post-war period as well.

In the Bulgarian Defence Minister's words, the new European Defence Industrial Strategy and the related programme will contribute to the development of strategic cooperation in defence and to a competitive and innovative defence industry. He supports a balanced and inclusive approach to the industries of all Member States in the Strategy's implementation, with a focus on SMEs. He put an emphasis on enhanced cooperation with NATO and partner countries. 

At a meeting of the European Defence Agency's Steering Board, Zapryanov gave a high mark to the Agency's role as a platform for cooperation between the Member States when prioritising and developing capabilities. He backed the results of the long-term review that give instructions on the Agency's development in aid of the Member States when implementing defence cooperation.