February 2 (BTA) - Prime Minister Kiril Petkov held a
video conference with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg,
the Government information service reported here on Wednesday.

The two discussed the current developments related to the
continuing Russian military buildup near the border with
Ukraine.

Petkov and Stoltenberg shared the view that the diplomatic
efforts at de-escalation must continue, while the Alliance
remains ready for a possible deterioration of the situation.  

Petkov told the NATO chief about the Bulgarian Government's
decision to contribute to the collective defence through the
formation of a Bulgarian battalion, with the possibility of NATO
 members making up for any deficits, if needed. The leading
principle in NATO, which is that every decision must be
supported by the public and the government in the relevant
member state, was once again reiterated during the conversation.
 RY/MY



/МЙ/