There aren't currently any plans for Bulgaria to send peacekeepers in Syria, says Defense Minister, Anyu Angelov.

Angelov attended Sunday a Christmas party and bazaar "Army of Miracles" for the children of servicemen who died in the line of duty.

Bulgaria's Defense Ministry provides monthly assistance to 74 such children.

When asked when the country was going to purchase a new fighter jet, he replied that the issue has been debated since 2011 and a solution had to finally be found ASAP.

"Some Ministries did not manage to prepare their opinion in 3 days. The deadline is within 10 days and I hope the decision will be approved at the Council of Ministers next week," Angelov said.

Finance Minister, Simeon Djankov, is the one opposing the purchase.

The Defense Minister reiterated once again that reports that servicemen were quitting the army in mass before the new retirement rules for the military become effective in 2013 were not true.

He informed that 186 individuals have left the army on their own wish and 649 others have retired is 2012, compared to 640 in 2011.

According to Angelov, this gives young officers a career push and is an advantage for the country's defense.

He also announced that in 2013 new soldiers will be hired after a job competition.