Readout of the Secretary-General's meeting with the President of Bulgaria

The Secretary-General met today with H.E. Mr. Georgi Parvanov, the President of Bulgaria.

He thanked the President for Bulgaria's continued support for the work of the United Nations.

They discussed developments in the Middle East and North Africa, particularly the situation in Libya. They agreed it was important for the people of those countries to lead and own the transitions.

They also discussed the situation in the Western Balkans.

They exchanged views on nuclear energy safety and security.

They agreed on the importance of education in helping to achieve the Millennium Development Goals. The Secretary-General paid tribute to Bulgaria's tradition of tolerance and its contribution to the Alliance of Civilizations initiative.