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Release
Immediate Release

Readout of Defense Secretary Dr. Mark T. Esper's Meeting With Bulgarian Minister of Defense Dr. Krasimir Karakachanov

Oct. 6, 2020

Chief Pentagon Spokesman Jonathan Hoffman provided the following readout:

Secretary of Defense Dr. Mark T. Esper met with Bulgarian Minister of Defense Dr. Krasimir Karakachanov at the Pentagon today. Secretary Esper noted that Bulgaria is a frontline NATO Ally and expressed his appreciation for Bulgaria’s commitment to the Alliance.

The Secretary and the Minister discussed defense modernization, Black Sea cooperation, international security, and joint exercises and operations.

Secretary Esper thanked the Defense Minister for exceeding NATO defense spending and modernization commitments, improving NATO’s readiness and deterrence.

Secretary Esper and Minister Karakachanov signed a 10-year “Roadmap for Defense Cooperation,” affirming the mutual defense commitment as strategic partners. The roadmap establishes a framework for the continuous development of Bulgaria's military readiness and capabilities over the next decade through sustained defense cooperation. 

Esper Defense Secretary