As an EU member state and NATO ally, Bulgaria is an active participant in all solidarity initiatives that aim to strengthen our deterrence and defence capabilities. Growing global challenges require more multilateral governance and rules-based international cooperation. We are all part of the global system and we are all responsible for preserving, maintaining and building international peace and security.

This is what Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov said in his speech at the fourth edition of the Antalya Diplomatic Forum. He took part in the panel on "Seeking partnerships in the era of multipolarity".

Prime Minister Zhelyazkov particularly focused on the Bulgarian government's proposal to establish and host a multinational maritime coordination centre to ensure the safety of navigation in the western Black Sea.  The proposal envisages ensuring constant maritime surveillance and early warning of potential threats and hostile activities from the centre, as well as enhancing the resilience of critical undersea infrastructure in the region.
Investment in the security of the Black Sea region is an investment in the security of the Euro-Atlantic area, Zhelyazkov was adamant. The Prime Minister also pointed to the establishment of the Black Sea Mine Action Task Force with Romania and Turkey as a positive example of coordination between coastal allies. Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov also highlighted the White Paper on the Future of European Defence, which represents a new strategic impulse and long-term determination towards a genuine European Defence Union. NATO remains the cornerstone of the collective defence of its members in Europe, the prime minister added.
Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov stressed the need to work closely with international organisations and partner countries to respond successfully to global crises, threats and challenges. The Prime Minister highlighted the role of the United Nations, the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, NATO and the World Trade Organization. The European market, for its part, is the clearest example of the success of removing trade barriers.  Zhelyazkov noted that the world is now driven by blocs and alliances, and competition requires solid negotiating power. I BGNES