Bulgaria's defence minister and NATO top commander John Craddock discussed Thursday the NATO operations in Afghanistan and Kosovo, Darik News reported.

Minister Vesselin Bliznakov underlined that Bulgaria has increased the number of soldiers in ISAF in Afghanistan from the beginning of July. The country is also looking to get into closer cooperation with the alliance.

The overall approach of the alliance is very important for the success of the operation in Afghanistan, Craddock said.

Both men were unanimous that KFOR must become a guarantee for Kosovo's security during the talks over its statute as well as after the decision for the statute.

Earlier in the day the US commander conferred with Bulgaria's commander-in-chief, Gen. Zlatan Stoykov, at whose invitation Craddock visits the country.

Craddock assessed highly the Bulgarian participation in NATO operations and said the Bulgarian military officers are great professionals.

Craddock was welcomed with military honours at a special ceremony, which took place in front of the memorial to the Unknown Soldier in downtown Sofia.

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