site.btaDefence Minister, Israeli Ambassador Discuss Complicated Security Situation in Europe, Mideast

Bulgaria's Defence Minister Atanas Zapryanov and Israel's Ambassador in Sofia Yosef Levi Sfari on Thursday discussed bilateral defence cooperation and opportunities for broadening its scope, Zapryanov's Ministry said in a press release.

The talks focused on the complicated security situation in Europe and in the Middle East. The Minister stressed the Bulgarian position condemning the terrorist attack against Israel on October 7, 2024. The Ambassador thanked Bulgaria for its support and empathy with the people of Israel. The growing security threats arising from illegal migration and the risk of terrorism were also discussed.

The modernization of the Bulgarian Armed Forces and the options for the Israeli defence industry sharing in forthcoming projects envisaged in the Defence Investment Programme were also high on the agenda of the meeting. The sides further discussed the traditionally fine cooperation in military education and expressed their conviction that the exchange of experience will continue to contribute to the development and operation of the armed forces of Bulgaria and Israel.