Defence Minister J. Naď completes “Top Secret” security check out of his own initiative, though this security clearance automatically comes with his post

Defence Minister Jaroslav Naď has completed the “TOP SECRET” security check out of his own initiative, despite the fact that as a member of the SVK Government he is a person with “special status” authorised to have access to classified information, and the “TOP SECRET” security clearance comes automatically with his post.

Reflecting on his security check, Defence Minister Jaroslav Naď said: “Immediately after my appointment as Minister of Defence, I requested a security check for the highest 4th level of security clearance. Already back then I realised how sensitive the information I would have access to on a daily basis would be. Therefore, I was subject to the classic, very detailed background investigation, including the disclosure of truly extensive information on my private life, past, credit and financial history, and health. I also had a security interview.”

The head of the MOD added that the SVK National Security Authority has completed his security check and today he holds a “TOP SECRET” Security Clearance Certificate. “Although I did not have to take this step from the legislative point of view, this was, from my point of view, of great significance not only because of my real contact with classified information, but also for transparency and for building trust in the eyes of foreign allies I meet and hold talks with. For sure, it is, therefore, worth considering it and, personally speaking, I strongly recommend it to other colleagues,” he added.