Bulgaria backs French declaration on European security, retaining reservations only over the preamble

A French initiative to reaffirm the fundamental principles of European security was presented at the Ninth European Political Community Summit in Dublin, receiving Bulgaria’s support with reservations. The country’s reservations concern only the preamble, Prime Minister Rumen Radev told journalists on 13 November 2026, as quoted by BTA. Earlier, the Council of Ministers reported his written objection to the wording on the diplomatic process concerning Ukraine.

Radev calls for passage on Abu Dhabi negotiations to be reinstated

“We supported this declaration with reservations only over the preamble,” Radev said. According to him, the written reservation is recorded in the minutes, while Bulgaria accepts and welcomes the rest of the document.

The prime minister said Bulgaria insists that the wording reflect developments in the peace negotiations on Ukraine that have begun, without closing off opportunities for dialogue and finding solutions. Radev says earlier drafts of the document highlighted the importance of the Abu Dhabi negotiations and the need to support them, but that this passage was later removed. Bulgaria wants it reinstated.

The government’s position, reported by BTA and 24 Chasa, describes the new round of US-mediated negotiations as an important step towards a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. Sofia insists that joint European messages should support this process.

Bulgaria supports the declaration but objects to the wording in its political preamble. The reservation does not amount to a rejection of the security principles set out in the document.

The Black Sea and Bulgaria’s priorities in the declaration

The French initiative places the UN Charter, the Helsinki Final Act and every state’s right to choose its own alliances at the heart of European security, according to government information quoted by BTA and 24 Chasa. The Council of Ministers describes upholding these principles as a direct interest of Bulgaria.

BTA reports that around 40 countries have backed the declaration. According to 24 Chasa, these include all EU member states. The publication also says the initiative builds on established EU and NATO formats and brings together countries outside them.

The government also identifies specific regional priorities for Bulgaria: Black Sea security, freedom of navigation and the protection of critical infrastructure against hybrid threats. This is a stated commitment to continue work in these areas, not an announcement of a new force deployment or additional funding.