USTDA Supports Increased Internet Connectivity in Bulgaria

Arlington, VA - Today, U.S. Trade and Development Agency Director Enoh T. Ebong signed a grant agreement with Bulgaria's State Enterprise National Railway Infrastructure Company (NRIC) for a feasibility study to support reliable high-speed internet through the deployment of fiber optic cables along Bulgaria's railways. The study will also help develop infrastructure to monitor the network and aggregate and protect sensitive government data. NRIC selected Virginia-based By Light Professional IT Services LLC to conduct the study.

"USTDA's partnership with NRIC will help strengthen connectivity across Bulgaria and provide more secure service for its consumers, government and critical infrastructure operators," said Director Ebong. "At the same time, this project offers a broad set of potential business opportunities for U.S. companies to offer innovative technologies and services."

The USTDA-funded feasibility study will include design, engineering and planning to support the replacement and expansion of existing cables across 1,500 miles of NRIC's rail infrastructure, as well as a unified cybersecurity system for the fiberoptic network.

"The grant from USTDA will enable the selection of a qualified contractor with extensive experience in research and construction of fiber optic networks for critical infrastructure," said Stoyan Stoyanov, NRIC's Director General. "The construction of a uniform national fiber-optic network will allow a quick and efficient transition to the most modern telecommunication services, the introduction of new standards in the management of the processes within the company, new technological solutions for the overall management of safety and the organization of the railway traffic in Bulgaria."

U.S. Ambassador to Bulgaria Kenneth Merten stated: "As Bulgaria continues to develop its highly regarded service industries, nationwide access to secure, high-speed internet connectivity is essential. This project will help ensure that the entire country is able to participate in this increasingly important part of the national and global economy."

"We are grateful to our partners for supporting our efforts for a more modern and safe railway infrastructure, which would answer the current needs of our society. Implementing new technologies for directing the transportation, automatization, and smart transport systems will enhance the safety and efficiency of the railway transport as a whole," said Bulgarian Minister of Transport and Communications Krasimira Stoyanova

USTDA's support for the project advances the U.S. Government's International Cyberspace & Digital Policy Strategy, which prioritizes developing and deploying technology that is open, safe, and secure.

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The U.S. Trade and Development Agency helps companies create U.S. jobs through the export of U.S. goods and services for priority infrastructure projects in emerging economies. USTDA links U.S. businesses to export opportunities by funding project preparation and partnership building activities that develop sustainable infrastructure and foster economic growth in partner countries.

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