Bulgaria Reaffirms Commitment to Increasing Defence Spending to 5% of GDP by 2035

Strategic Insights -

Bulgaria has reaffirmed its commitment to increasing its public spending on defence to 5% of GDP by 2035, a goal approved unanimously for all member states during the NATO Summit in The Hague. This ambitious target aims to transform Bulgaria's defence capabilities and develop its defence industry, with the Prime Minister, Rosen Zhelyazkov, outlining plans for targeted investments in key areas. The government has emphasized that the additional defence spending will be complemented by the country's state budget, as well as the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) instrument, which Bulgaria can utilize.

Key Takeaways:

  • Bulgaria plans to increase its public spending on defence to 5% of GDP by 2035, with core spending on defence targeting 3.5% of GDP and additional defence-related expenditures making up the remaining 1.5%.
  • The government aims to develop its defence industry and transform its defence capabilities through targeted investments in key areas.
  • A national defence investment plan will be drawn up to outline the country's defence spending strategy and priorities.
  • The Prime Minister has dismissed fears that defence spending will compromise other important sectors, arguing that a well-working economy should always prioritize growth and a rising GDP.
  • NATO has an important role to play in deterring aggressive behavior, particularly in the Western Balkans, where "Russia's malicious, hybrid efforts find fertile ground".

Statistics:

  • Bulgaria aims to increase its defence spending to 5% of GDP by 2035.
  • Core spending on defence is planned to reach 3.5% of GDP, with additional defence-related expenditures making up the remaining 1.5%.
  • The government will utilize the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) instrument to complement defence spending.

Sources:

  • Government of Bulgaria press release, 2023.