Pree Releases 2009
U.S.-Assisted Cleanup Operation at Chelopechene Successfully Completed
March 27, 2009
The U.S. Embassy is pleased to announce the completion of a U.S. assistance program to work with Bulgaria’s defense Ministry to clean up the explosion at the Chelopechene ammunition storage facility. Under this State Department-funded $750,000 project, U.S. explosive experts found and removed over 110,000 potentially dangerous pieces of ordnance.
U.S. civilian and military personnel surveyed the site within days of the explosion, and the U.S. provided immediate financial assistance to the Bulgarian military to defray the costs of the cleanup, in addition to the $750,000 project itself.
These cleanup operations are part of the broader security partnership between the United States and Bulgaria. As Ambassador McEldowney underscored, “This project is of great importance to both our countries. Bulgaria is a friend and ally of the United States. We have a fundamental interest in ensuring the area does not pose any threat to the local community or environment.”
In addition to joint military exercises and the provision of equipment and training, the U.S. provides funding each year to help Bulgaria destroy excess weapons and ammunition, with approximately $400,000 budgeted for this year. These efforts are part of the U.S. commitment to help the Bulgarian military become the most modern and effective force possible.
If you need more infomration, please, contact the Embassy Press Office at 937 5134 or email sofia@usembassy.bg