Towards the end of his visit in Bulgaria, US president George W. Bush met Prime Minister Sergei Stanishev.

Bush said that he supported the efforts of Bulgaria’s Cabinet to implement decisive measures against corruption and organised crime.

Talks also focused on increasing the volume of US investment in the infrastructure and energy sectora, NATO co-operation and the political situation in the Balkan region.

By the end of the year Bulgaria and the US will sign technical agreements for co-operation in the defence sector. The agreements are needed before US troops arrive to undergo training in the country.

Stanishev said that Bulgaria hoped to receive US aid for the modernisation of the army.

The visit of Bush was important in the context of the political situation on the Balkans, Stanishev said.

It was important for Balkan countries to get a clear vision concerning their EU and NATO membership. US supported fully the integration of these countries, Bush said.