Inspection and practical testing of national procedures for the detection of nuclear and radioactive materials at border checkpoints is the focus of the joint Bulgarian-American command and staff exercise "TANGRA TTX", which began today. It will last until 9 September and is organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the US State Department.

"TANGRA TTX presents an opportunity for us to test our national model and capabilities, identification time and measures to stop the import and export of illicit nuclear or radioactive materials. This includes cases of planned terrorist attack and situations involving the transfer of improvised explosive devices," Deputy Foreign Minister Kostadin Kojabashev explained.

Ambassador Herro Mustafa noted that lectures will be given by representatives of the State Department, the US Department of Energy and the FBI. There will also be a demonstration with specialized equipment.