On December 1, 2016, the OSAC Bulgaria Country Council held its annual general assembly meeting at the U.S. Embassy, Sofia. Four years after Ambassador Ries launched OSAC in Sofia, Ambassador Eric Rubin provided the keynote address to the membership, stating that the challenges, global threats and risks we face today are serious, complicated and unpredictable – highlighting that only by collaborating, exchanging ideas and knowledge, and opening channels of communication we can fight effectively against these threats and risks.
More than 45 participants from over 30 companies elected and congratulated the new OSAC Bulgaria Steering Committee, discussed with security experts the local and regional crime environment and security threats, and were briefed on what the security companies are doing to tighten the physical security of malls and shopping centers, and how to react in case of an active shooter scenario. Council Chair Stefan Dimitrov (Allied Pickfords) reminded the constituents of all activities and events organized throughout the years.
OSAC was established in 1985 under the Federal Advisory Committee Act to promote security cooperation between American private sector interest worldwide and the U.S. Department of State. The OSAC Council is comprised of 30 private sector and 4 public sector member organizations that represent specific industries or agencies. Today, the OSAC partnership encompasses ten federal agencies and over 4,600 private organizations, from the business and academic communities to non-governmental and faith-based organizations.
The OSAC Bulgaria Country Council, launched in November 2012, is one of 148 OSAC chapters around the globe attached to U.S. Embassies and consulates.
