Germany supports Bulgaria in its effort to join NATO, Cornelius Zimmermann, adviser at Germany's Permanent Representation to NATO, said January 30 at his meeting with Stanimir Ilchev, Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Policy, Defence and Security. Zimmermann pointed out that this vist is an expression of Germany’s positive attitude to Bulgaria. Germany is willing to provide assistance, consultations, and share its experience the reforms in the new provinces. Ilchev briefed the German delegation on the specific measures Parliament will take in view of Bulgaria's preparation for NATO
accession. The implementation of reforms until the Prague summit of NATO is considered a basic factor for the Alliances final decision as to which countries will be invited to join it.