Abdullah Jan
Sofia: Bulgaria’s government has approved agreements for a €3.26 billion European Union-backed loan aimed at strengthening the country’s defence capabilities under the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) instrument.
The decision, announced following a cabinet meeting, includes both a loan agreement between Bulgaria and the European Union and an operational agreement with the European Commission. The financing package will support nine key defence projects outlined in Bulgaria’s national military development plan.
According to government officials, the loan will be provided on favourable terms, including a grace period of up to 10 years on principal repayments and a repayment period extending up to 45 years.
The projects form part of Bulgaria’s wider Defence Investment Programme running through 2032 and are intended to modernise military capabilities and strengthen readiness within both NATO and EU defence frameworks.
Officials said funding will be integrated into the national defence budget and used to support long-term capability development in line with collective security commitments.
The government described the initiative as an important step in enhancing national security and ensuring Bulgaria meets its obligations under NATO’s collective defence system and the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy.
The agreements will now be submitted for ratification by Bulgaria’s National Assembly before implementation begins.
