site.btaUS Ambassador Merten: Bulgaria Has Very Important Role in NATO

The US Ambassador to Bulgaria, Kenneth Merten, Tuesday said that Bulgaria has a very important role in NATO. He took part in a conference on Bulgaria's 20th anniversary of NATO accession at the Central Military Club in Sofia. The event was organized by the Students' Diplomatic Club at the Kliment Ohridski University of Sofia in cooperation with the Defence Ministry.

Merten stressed that the US and Bulgaria are friends, partners, and allies, adding that the two countries showed they share a rich history during the commemoration of the 120th anniversary of diplomatic relations between them in 2023. The Ambassador said that friendship and partnership between US and Bulgaria have never been stronger. He stressed that 2024 marks two important events: NATO’s 75th anniversary and the 20th anniversary of Bulgaria's accession to the Alliance. Merten congratulated Bulgaria on the anniversary and praised its important contribution to the Alliance over the past two decades.

The US Ambassador also praised Bulgaria's leading role in ensuring the security of NATO's eastern flank and the Black Sea region. He commended Bulgaria for the steps it has taken to modernize and strengthen its defence capabilities. Merten added that the US is proud to support this country's efforts in this regard by helping fund modernization projects, including the acquisition of F-16 fighter jets and Stryker armored vehicles.

In his words, through these investments, Bulgaria will meet its commitment to defence spending equal to 2% of GDP by the end of 2024. Merten pointed out that the war in Ukraine has strengthened NATO allies' resolve to stand united. He said that what is happening on the territory of Ukraine has shown Europe and the whole world how dangerous Russia's policy is. The Ambassador noted that the constant coordination with the European Union, the United Kingdom, and other allies, including Bulgaria, has contributed to Ukraine's defence against Russian invasion. He also praised the assistance Bulgaria is providing to Ukraine.