The US will soon be able to deploy troops to other countries from Bulgaria's bases without asking the Balkan country's permission, the Washington Times reported.

This matter is sensitive for many Bulgarians, the newspaper writes in an article titled "Bulgaria Oks 3 bases for US troops". The report explains that the US had to be able to use their soldiers where theyneeded them, without tying them down. This is why the States' ability to freely deploy troops without permission is stipulated in the final draft of the agreement for the bases.

Bulgaria's Foreign Ministry Spokesman Dimitar Tsanchev, however, refuted the Washington Times report ,saying that attacks could be launched only after consulting Bulgaria and with the country's consent.

Another controversial point in the negotiations was the jurisdiction over crimes committed by US soldiers on Bulgarian territory. In the end it was decided that he Balkan country would keep the right to apply its legislation in such cases. However, in accordance with NATO regulations, the US wold have the right of first jurisdiction. This means that the soldiers would first be tried in the States.

By signing the agreement Bulgaria will allow the deployment of another country's troops on its territory for the first time in its 1325-year-long history. US Secretary of Stat Condoleeza Rice will sign the deal during her first official visit to Bulgaria on April 27.

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