Bulgaria's Head of State Rumen Radev met with the head of the Office for the Coordination of Sanctions Coordination at the U.S. Department of State, Ambassador Jim O'Brien, who is visiting Sofia from 30 to 31 August. 

The upcoming parliamentary elections, the development of the legislative framework for the implementation of the Recovery and Resilience Plan, Bulgaria's accession to the Schengen area and energy diversification were discussed at the meeting. President Radev stressed that strong economy, prosperous society and free media can only thrive on the foundation of the rule of law which means that the war against corruption should not be subordinated to political or other considerations. 

Ambassador O’Brien will meet with counterparts in the Bulgarian government and members of the international business community to discuss fostering a transparent and friendly business environment, facilitating foreign direct investment, and strengthening rule of law.

During his visit, the US diplomat will attend an event hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce, and with the involvement of the German and Swiss Chambers of Commerce, dedicated to increasing trans-Atlantic business ties.

(As Head of the Office of Sanctions Coordination Mr O’Brien’s position is with the rank of ambassador – ed.)