The cost of the participation of Bulgaria in the NATO weapons embargo operation in Libya can reach BGN 4.5 M, according to Defense Minister, Anyu Angelov.

On Wednesday, during the Council of Ministers meeting, the cabinet is expected to make the decision to send the "Drazki" frigate for three months to the Mediterranean Sea to take part in the operation.

Angelov pointed out the frigate can be used for only a month and then be replaced by another ally ship, adding "Drazki" and its 160 crew patrolling the Libyan waters can cost taxpayers a significant amount, estimated at BGN 1.5 M a month.

"The cabinet will approve sending the frigate for three months, but this does not mean it will stay there for this entire time. The length of stay of each ship in the Mediterranean is one month in general before rotation is done," the Minister explained.

It is expected "Drazki" will be ready for departure in mid-April.

When asked how our allies react to criticism of the country's defense policy and participation in the NATO mission, coming from President and Commander in Chief, Georgi Parvanov, Angelov said:

"I hope they don't read Facebook posts because such statements reveal a deep ignorance about NATO procedures."

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