Radio Bulgaria

Sofia has been the host of a 2-day conference on the subject of “Collective and national security in the context of dynamic geo-strategic changes and reduced expenses.” A number of politicians and experts from the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Interior and non-governmental organisations took part in the conference. The goal is to analyze the current situation in the world and the region, as well as to define the Bulgarian position before the high-level NATO meeting in 2012.

The current security threats are very hard to predict, especially in a situation of economic and financial crisis in the world. That is why we must be more versatile in order to face the new challenges, Bulgarian Minister of Defense Anyu Angelov said during the forum. The minister focused on the harmonization of the Bulgarian policy with the NATO strategy and the US defense strategy. According to Minister Anyu Angelov, in order for Bulgaria to able to guarantee its security, it should not focus only on the diplomatic and economic sphere but should also develop adequate defense potential. The minister added that these days the size of the army did not automatically mean more security. Also as a NATO and EU Member State Bulgaria is a part of a much larger structure, where the abilities of a single nation are not of crucial importance, the minister added.

“Today we need a smaller but modern and versatile army, which can face modern challenges and risks. This can be done in the system for collective security provided by NATO and the EC,” the minister said.

He added that in the current crisis situation, Bulgaria could achieve the desired state of national security with the participation of the country in international projects.

“Bulgaria has already confirmed its participation in international projects in the framework of NATO and the EC, as well as our regional relations. The cooperation and trust between the countries in the region is a firm base for the development of the relations in Southeastern Europe. As a NATO Member Bulgaria participates in the C 17 programme for providing strategic air flights. Bulgaria is also among the countries that aim to create a network of states using the Spartan airplanes for transport of military personnel and cargo.”

Bulgarian Minister Anyu Angelov pointed out that the country is interested in 6 more projects in the sphere of the so-called intelligent security. Another project in which Bulgaria takes part is the development of the NATO Center of Excellence. Bulgaria has also offered the joint usage of bases in Romania and Bulgaria. All these projects are expected to be approved at the NATO summit meeting in May.

English: Alexander Markov