Sofia, January 25 (BTA) - The Security Council under the government discussed the tensions around Ukraine and NATO plans to beef up its eastern flank. The Security Council operates under the direct authority of the Prime Minister. A press release put out by the government says that the meeting "considered the risks and cheallenges amid the complicated security environment as a result of the tensions on the border of Ukraine". It does not report of any decisions being made.

Attending the meeting were Defence Minister Stefan Yanev, Interior Minister Boyko Rashkov, Foreign Minister Teodora Genchovska and security service officials.

The Prime Minister heard an analysis of the geopolitical situation and possible measures considered by NATO, to demonstrate solidarity at its eastern flank. He is quoted as saying that all decisions to be made by the government, will reflect how the situation evolves and possible escalation of the conflict, including decisions for measures to avoid an adverse impact on the economy.

He is also quoted as saying that Bulgaria is a loyal partner in the Alliance and unity is the strongest response.

The Security Council will continue to monitor the situation and prepare action plans for various scenarios, the government press release says.

The Prime Minister asked the Defence Minister to submit during the government's weekly meeting on Wednesday a draft national position and measures for enhancing the national security system and combat worthiness of the Armed Forces. Based on that, the government will adopt specific measures which will be communicated with Parliament after the government meeting.

The Security Council: the main decision marker

In a comment for the press early on Tuesday, Prime Minister Petkov said that the Security Council should be the main decision maker about Bulgaria's security from now on. "The number one task of today's meeting is to make a thorough analysis of the situation and make recommendations to the Council of Ministers, which is meeting on Wednesday," said the Prime Minister. The recommendations will also reach the National Assembly, which is holding an extraordinary sitting on this matter on Wednesday.

Petkov said there is no need for the President to call a meeting of the Consultative Council on National Security because the Security Council under the Prime Minister will analyse the state of the national security protection system.

Petkov expressed a hope for "a clear reading of the situation" after Tuesday's meeting and the information of the security services.

He said the ships and the aircraft which are being sent to Bulgaria are part of a 2016 NATO decision on enhanced air-policing and not a response to an emergency situation. DD/LN///