site.btaPresident Radev Meets with Commissioner of the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission David Wright

Bulgaria has over 50 years of proven experience in operating nuclear facilities to the highest safety standards, President Rumen Radev said here on Thursday. He was speaking at a meeting with the visiting Commissioner of the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission, David Wright, the head of State's Press Secretariat said.

Thursday’s meeting was also attended by US Ambassador Kenneth Merten.

"In order to position the sector as a strategic one for our economy, it is necessary to provide training opportunities for more Bulgarian specialists and experts, as well as firm safety guarantees," Radev said. The development of the nuclear energy sector ensures autonomy and security, the President noted, adding that nuclear power has emerged as an affordable and reliable source contributing to carbon neutrality amid the growing global energy consumption and demand.

The sides discussed aspects of the cooperation between Bulgaria and the US in nuclear energy, including the construction of the 7th and 8th units at the Kozloduy N-Plant and the implementation of the US-based Westinghouse AP1000 technology. The opportunities for training Bulgarian specialists in the management and maintenance of the facilities were also among the topics of discussion. Issues related to the licensing of the reactors and the project’s time frame and financial framework were also discussed.

David Wright said that the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission is ready to share its experience and expertise to support Bulgaria's role in ensuring energy security and stability, not only domestically but also in the region.