"There are risks to national security, but as far as defense is concerned - it is guaranteed. And with the capabilities available to our army, and above all with our membership in NATO, and with the defense plans, which already include our territory". This was commented by the former Minister of Defense Velizar Shalamanov in the program "The Day ON AIR".
According to him, to be prepared about cyber security, we need to have a clear strategy, which is the responsibility of the government. According to him, one of the main factors for cyber security is the Ministry of e-Government, and there are a number of problems that create a feeling of insecurity.
"We see that there was tension between the prime minister and heads of individual departments. There is insufficient quality information in the field of security. There is a problem in coordination, information exchange and communication between the prime minister and the services. The Prime Minister cannot be left alone to handle various offices. It's about time there was a director of national intelligence. All the scandals that are based on leaked information, fake news - all this is a matter of security in our information space, it creates internal insecurity among citizens", Shalamanov told Bulgaria ON AIR.
The former defense minister also commented on the situation in Ukraine. According to him, the country is in a difficult situation, but with accelerated provision of military aid, a decisive turnaround is possible.
"Then there will be a critical moment - what will be the Russian response. We can meet this type of risk only with NATO and our allies," Shalamanov emphasized.
According to him, the responsibility of politics is to anticipate and reduce risk in the protection of citizens and seek support.
"We live in a risky society. The risk is not only from war. This means a new type of politics. This policy expects the participation of citizens and experts, but also the responsibility of politicians," Shalamanov specified.