It is in the interest of society to understand that investment in security is fundamental for the functioning of all socio-economic spheres. With these words, Admiral Emil Efthimov opened the second day of the annual Chief of Defence Conference in Sofia, highlighting the need for more funding for the country's defence. 

 The Alliance and the democratic world are facing the most dangerous and unpredictable security situation since the Cold War, he said. Only the solidarity and cohesion of NATO Allies can serve as our centre of gravity, he stressed. According to Efthimov, collective defence is the most effective mechanism for fair burden-sharing among Allies and for ensuring the sustainable development of member states.

Admiral Joachim Rühle, Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe, is a guest at the conference.