Bulgarian Defense Minister Atana Zaprianov He said today that defense spending in 2025 would reach 2.09% of GDP, speaking to reporters on the first day of the two -day annual defense conference.

The Head of Defense, Admiral Emilpresented an analysis of the status and preparation of the Armed Forces in 2024.

“If we take the money for compensation, the budget will exceed 2.09%. The good news is that the governance program predicts 2.5% of GDP for the coming years »Zaprianov said.

The governance program includes a strategic revision of military capabilities, the defense minister said. “NATO’s new potential goals are much wider and require us to adapt our potential development plans.” One of the Ministry of Defense’s proposals – the compulsory military training of citizens – is missing from the Governance program because one of the coalition parties does not approve it. The proposal was to seek military training for employees in some areas where weapons are part of the job.

“In addition to the disagreement of a political party, we also face resistance from certain areas”Zaprianov commented, adding that the interior ministry is among them. They are worried that such a requirement will limit citizens’ opportunities to join the ministry, he explained.

“I am very pleased with the analysis, because it really and precisely reflects the state of the Armed Forces without hiding anything. We will prepare and submit to Parliament a report on the implementation of the investment program »added Zaprianov.

“The demand for the preparation of the Armed Forces has increased significantly and decisively, raising questions about staff hiring. I have accepted the defense leader’s proposal and priority units will be determined to pay them. ” The minister said.