site.btaUPDATED Bulgarian Defence Minister Talks to US Defence Secretary Austin, British Minister for Europe and North America James Cleverly

Bulgarian Defence Minister Dragomir Zakov held a telephone conversation with US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin at the invitation of the US side, Zakov's Ministry said in a press release late Thursday night.

The two exchanged views on the security environment in the context of the military conflict in Ukraine and on the promotion of the bilateral strategic partneship. The Allies' efforts to provide assistance to the Ukrainian people were discussed.

Zakov familiarized his US counterpart with Bulgaria's plans for the formation of a Bulgarian-led battlegroup in its territory. The two mapped out measures for the acceleration of the Bulgarian Armed Forces' modernization process, including the delivery of F-16 fighters for the Bulgarian Air Force and support for the ongoing transformation of the Bulgarian Land Forces, the press release says. 

On Friday, Zakov conferred with British Minister for Europe and North America James Cleverly, who is paying a working visit to Bulgaria, the Defence Ministry said. 

The two discussed a wide range of issues, including the prospects for developing the bilateral defence relations, the situation in Ukraine, and joint efforts to build up capabilities to counteract disinformation.

Zakov and Cleverly concurred on the need of joint efforts to fight disinformation. Zakov stressed that this is a priority and that Bulgaria appreciates highly Britain's support.

British Ambassador Rob Dixon also took part in the meeting.