The Minister of Transport, Information Technology and Communications Hristo Alexiev held an emergency meeting today with the Deputy Head of Mission of the Republic of Turkey, Mr. Erman Topçu, the Ministry of Transport announced.
The meeting was a continuation of the talks of Minister Alexiev yesterday with a representative of the Turkish shipowner.
Hristo Alexiev set a condition for strict control over the commitment and obligation of the shipowner to present a timely adequate plan in accordance with Bulgarian and European legislation. The Minister stressed that the Bulgarian state continues to manage the rescue operation and has mobilized equipment, including for the evacuation of the crew, and the situation is currently under control, but additional urgent and adequate measures are needed by the shipowner.
Deputy Chief Erman Topcu informed Minister Alexiev that the shipowner has already provided a specialized company to rescue the ship and is awaiting written confirmation from the Bulgarian side. In response, Minister Alexiev said that the Bulgarian state will confirm the engagement of this type of company, but expects to be presented with a clear plan with concrete steps to deal with the situation. The Minister insisted on the strict implementation of the plan and the guarantees for the care of the crew, which are of paramount importance for our country.
“I am confident that Bulgaria and Turkey will show their good cooperation in resolving this critical issue,” Alexiev said.
Deputy Head Erman Topcu pledged that the embassy would provide the necessary assistance and play an active role in coordinating the issue.
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