site.btaOutgoing Defence Minister Tagarev, Czech Ambassador Meet

Outgoing Defence Minister Todor Tagarev and newly-appointed Czech Ambassador Miroslav Toman on Thursday discussed advancement of bilateral cooperation in the field of defence, said the Defence Ministry. 

Talks focused on cooperation in the defense industry and the prospects for its acceleration, with both sides rallying around the view of great potential for development in the field. They discussed the opportunities and practical benefits of the Hemus International Defence Exhibition, which for 29 years has been one of the most reliable partners of national and international institutions, the armed forces, the defence industry and the academic community in the interests of national security and industrial development. Representatives of the Czech defence industry will take part in this year's 16th edition of the exhibition, which will be held from June 5 to 8 in Plovdiv.

The partnership within the European Union and NATO and the importance of the dynamics of constructive dialogue for achieving common goals were also discussed during the meeting. Outgoing Minister Todor Tagarev and Ambassador Toman underlined the long-standing ties between Bulgaria and the Czech Republic in the context of the similar historical path our countries have followed, the Ministry of Defence further said.

Deputy Foreign Minister Elena Shekerletova received copies of the credentials of the newly appointed Czech Ambassador to Bulgaria Miroslav Toman on January 23. During the talks the two sides discussed cultural issues as well as the partnership of Bulgaria and the Czech Republic within the European Union and NATO.

On 11 March, the Ambassador met with Plovdiv Mayor Kostadin Dimitrov, as well as with Plovdiv Regional Governor Ilia Zyumbilev. Among the topics discussed was this year's Hemus defence expo, where the Czech Republic will present the new L-39 aircraft.