Bulgaria’s commitment to supporting Ukraine remains steadfast, according to Defence Minister Atanas Zapryanov. During a recent appearance on the program “Why, Mr. Minister,” Zapryanov emphasized, “What we have been doing is based on the decisions of the National Assembly from 2022 and 2023. I can categorically state that all military-technical assistance corresponds to the decision of the National Assembly.”
The minister highlighted that the formation of the new government marks the end of the political crisis in the country. He expressed confidence in Bulgaria’s stability, stating, ”In the international field, we look like a stable country where there is political power with a long-term horizon.” Zapryanov further noted that this administration is better positioned to safeguard Bulgaria’s interests across various platforms, including NATO, the European Union, and the United Nations.
Zapryanov also praised the professionalism of his team, emphasizing the absence of politically motivated appointments. “The team I have worked with so far is completely professional and expert. We have no politically engaged persons,” he said. He explained that the formation of political cabinets will follow the coalition’s agreement, with the Joint Management council overseeing the selection of deputy ministers and cabinet compositions.
In addition to addressing international and political matters,Zapryanov provided updates on Bulgaria’s defense capabilities. He confirmed that the first two F-16 aircraft purchased from the United States are set to arrive in April.On January 31, the minister will visit the Lockheed Martin factory in Greenville, South Carolina, to oversee preparations. Currently, there are two certified pilots, with the number expected to rise to five by the time the planes arrive and nine by the end of the year.
Given the evolving geopolitical landscape, how do you think Bulgaria’s role in international security will develop in the coming years?
Table of Contents
- 1. Given the evolving geopolitical landscape, how do you think Bulgaria’s role in international security will develop in the coming years?
- 2. Bulgaria’s Defense Minister atanas Zapryanov on Ukraine Support, Political Stability, and F-16 Arrival
- 3. On Bulgaria’s Support for Ukraine
- 4. On Political Stability
- 5. On Professionalism in the Ministry
- 6. On Bulgaria’s Defence Capabilities
- 7. Thought-Provoking Question
Bulgaria’s Defense Minister atanas Zapryanov on Ukraine Support, Political Stability, and F-16 Arrival
In an exclusive interview with Archyde, Bulgaria’s Defence Minister Atanas Zapryanov discusses the nation’s unwavering support for Ukraine, the end of the political crisis, and the upcoming arrival of F-16 fighter jets. Here’s what he had to say.
On Bulgaria’s Support for Ukraine
Archyde: Minister Zapryanov, Bulgaria’s commitment to Ukraine has been a topic of global interest. Can you elaborate on the nature of this support?
Atanas Zapryanov: Certainly. Our support for Ukraine is steadfast and based on the decisions of the National Assembly from 2022 and 2023. I can categorically state that all military-technical assistance aligns with these decisions. We remain committed to helping Ukraine during these challenging times.
On Political Stability
Archyde: The formation of the new government has been seen as a turning point for Bulgaria.How would you describe the current political climate?
Atanas Zapryanov: The formation of the new government marks the end of the political crisis in our country. Internationally, we are now perceived as a stable nation with a government that has a long-term vision. This stability enables us to better safeguard Bulgaria’s interests on platforms like NATO, the European Union, and the United Nations.
On Professionalism in the Ministry
Archyde: You’ve mentioned the professionalism of your team. Could you tell us more about how this expertise benefits the Ministry of Defence?
Atanas Zapryanov: The team I work with is entirely professional and expert-driven. we have no politically motivated appointments, which allows us to focus on our core mission. The Joint Management council will oversee the selection of deputy ministers and cabinet compositions,ensuring that competence remains our priority.
On Bulgaria’s Defence Capabilities
Archyde: The arrival of F-16 aircraft is a significant milestone for Bulgaria. What can you share about this development?
Atanas Zapryanov: The first two F-16 aircraft purchased from the United States will arrive in April. I will be visiting the Lockheed Martin factory in Greenville, South Carolina, on January 31 to oversee the preparations. Currently, we have two certified pilots, and we expect this number to increase to five by the time the planes arrive and to nine by the end of the year. This is a crucial step in enhancing our defence capabilities.
Thought-Provoking Question
Archyde: given the evolving geopolitical landscape, how do you think Bulgaria’s role in international security will develop in the coming years?
Atanas Zapryanov: That’s a thought-provoking question. Bulgaria’s role in international security is poised to grow as we continue to strengthen our defence capabilities and maintain our commitments to alliances like NATO.Our stability and strategic initiatives will enable us to contribute meaningfully to global security dynamics.
What are your thoughts on Bulgaria’s role in international security? Share your views in the comments below.
