The Bulgarian Prime Minister Sergey Stanishev stated Friday that the National Revenue Agency (NRA) is part of the national security system and attacks against it were a threat to national security, BGNES reports.

"All attempts to slander the entire system of important State institutions are not simply dangerous, they weaken the country's security," Stanishev said.

The PM spoke Friday during the official introduction of the new NRA Director Krasimir Stephanov, held at the NRA building in downtown Sofia. Stanishev stressed the importance of the Agency in times of financial crisis, adding he was convinced NRA employed numerous honest and highly motivated individuals.

"I oppose all attacks, all this brutal, irresponsible and unfounded talk in the last few days. Bulgaria is standing very strong and stable. This is not simply by accident or good luck. It is the result of our consistent policy," Stanishev declared.

The PM reminded that in 2007, the World Bank had ranked Bulgaria among the top ten countries in the world by the rate of effective reforms.

Krasimir Stephanov was appointed Director of the National Revenue Agency with a decree of the Ministries Council, dated February 16, 2009.

Stephanov replaces Maria Murgina, who was released from her duties as NRA Director with the same decree.

Murgina resigned on February 12, after the State Agency for National Security (DANS) stripped her of her right to access classified information and among a brewing scandal over the huge organized draining of Value Added Tax (VAT) and political cover-up.

Until now Stephanov has been the NRA Deputy Director, in charge of the Agency's operational activities and Murgina's right hand.

Krasimir Stephanov has been working in the NRA system since 1996. He is a graduate of the University of National and World Economy in Sofia with a major in Business Management and Administration.

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