Bulgaria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nikolay Mladenov, began his 7-day visit in USA (April 28 – May 4) with several high-level meetings, the Foreign Ministry informs.

During the first day of his visit, the Minister held talks with James Jones, United States National Security Advisor, focusing on problems of the Western Balkans, the joint military operations in Afghanistan and the new NATO strategy.

With Ellen Tauscher, the US Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Affairs, Mladenov discussed Bulgaria’s inclusion in the US defense shield in Europe and issues related to nuclear security. Both sides have expressed desire to continue and deepen the dialogue about the shield, both bilaterally and within NATO.

Energy topics were the main items on the agenda of the meeting with Sen. Richard Lugar, who pointed out the EU-backed gas line “Nabucco” is Bulgaria’s best option as far as energy security is concerned.

Lugar also spoke about his intentions to encourage the US government to work on a coherent strategy for anti-missile defense in Europe, especially in the southeastern part of the old continent over its proximity to the Middle East.

Mladenov also met with Representatives Joe Wilson, member of the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and the Subcommittee on Europe and William Delahunt, Chairman of the United States House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on International Organizations, Human Rights, and Oversight. Both confirmed their commitment to work for the lifting of US visa requirements for Bulgarian citizens.

During a reception at the Bulgarian Embassy in Washington DC, the Foreign Minister opened an exhibit dedicated to the rescue of Bulgarian Jews during World War II, in the presence of diplomats and members of the US Administration.

Mladenov was also official guest of the ceremony for the inauguration of the DC Office of the European Parliament, hosted by EP President, Jerzy Buzek

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