26 September 2005 -- Bulgarian Defense Minister Veselin Bliznakov says Sofia should come up with a plan soon to allow the United States to establish three military bases on its territory.
Bliznakov told reporters today that establishing the bases is "very important" for Bulgaria. He said he hopes a proposal is formulated within the next month.
Bliznakov declined to comment on any details on the bases or the number of the troops expected to be stationed at them. Solomon Pasi, chairman of the Bulgarian parliament's Foreign Policy Commission, said last week that Sofia and Washington are close to agreeing on three sites. He said the bases would be used mainly for training but would host around 3,000 U.S. soldiers on a permanent basis.
Romania said last month it is also drafting a deal to set up U.S. bases on the Black Sea.
(Reuters)
Bliznakov declined to comment on any details on the bases or the number of the troops expected to be stationed at them. Solomon Pasi, chairman of the Bulgarian parliament's Foreign Policy Commission, said last week that Sofia and Washington are close to agreeing on three sites. He said the bases would be used mainly for training but would host around 3,000 U.S. soldiers on a permanent basis.
Romania said last month it is also drafting a deal to set up U.S. bases on the Black Sea.
(Reuters)