DFNC1: Balkan Edition. The Balkan-Ukrainian Defense Industry Forum took place in Bulgaria

On June 7, the Balkan-Ukrainian Defense Industry Forum took place in Bulgaria. The event was attended by Adelina Nikolova, Deputy Minister of Defense of the Republic of Bulgaria; David Sukalinski, Deputy Minister of Economy and Industry of the Republic of Bulgaria; Serhiy Boiev, Deputy Minister for Strategic Industries of Ukraine; Dmytro Klimenkov, Deputy Minister of Defense of Ukraine; Marina Bezrukova, Director of the Defense Procurement Agency; and Herman Smetanin, CEO of Ukrainian Defense Industry.

The purpose of the event was to strengthen partnership between the governments of Ukraine and the Balkan countries and to establish cooperation between Ukrainian and Balkan defense enterprises.

"Today, the whole world understands that one must be prepared to fight for peace. That is why together with our partners, we are building in Ukraine an Arsenal of the Free World. The Balkan Peninsula countries play a significant role in arms production in Europe, particularly in the manufacture of ammunition. Therefore, it is important for us to build strong partnership relations in the defense industry between our countries to strengthen the defense capability of the democratic world as a whole," said Serhiy Boiev.

During the forum, discussions focused on the need to increase production capacities for arms and military equipment in response to today's challenges. This included strategies for producing traditional types of armament and how defense technology is key to technological advantage.

"The holding of this forum corresponds to the joint efforts to strengthen defense-industrial cooperation between the European Union and Ukraine. These efforts are focused not only on providing sustainable military support to Ukraine but also on better meeting the long-term needs of Ukrainian defense and industry. It is expected that these joint and structured efforts will lead to the gradual integration of the Ukrainian industry into the European defense-technological and industrial base," said Adelina Nikolova.

"In an increasingly interconnected world, our security and economic priority depend on our ability to work together, share knowledge, and leverage our strengths. By fostering a spirit of cooperation, we can collectively enhance our defense capabilities and ensure a safer and more secure future for all. I want to assure you that the Ministry of Economy is a reliable partner, and we will support the development of future economic initiatives in the context of our joint aspiration to uphold the principles of sovereignty and security in Europe and the world," said David Sukalinski.

We are grateful to our partners for their support in our fight against Russian aggression. Ukraine is ready to share the experience and knowledge that will be useful to democratic countries in strengthening their own defense capabilities. That's why assistance to Ukraine is about mutually beneficial partnership.