site.btaPM Zhelyazkov Highlights Role of AI in Audit at National Audit Office Conference

Addressing the international conference on “Artificial Intelligence and IT Audit in Safeguarding Public Resources”, held at the Grand Hotel Millennium Sofia on Monday, Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov said that the National Audit Office (NAO) is one of the institutions that shapes the moral strength of the state. “With public trust in the institution, society is more confident that public resources are managed efficiently and with the necessary respect for citizens,” Zhelyazkov said.

The Prime Minister underscored that when the state applies sustainable institutional measures, events such as the marking of 145 years since the establishment of the NAO are not only an opportunity to reflect but also a reason to look ahead with confidence.

“The National Audit Office not only preserves traditions but also builds the future,” Zhelyazkov said, referring to the role of artificial intelligence (AI) assistants in auditing, emphasizing that AI should not be overestimated or serve as a substitute for human judgment.

He also praised the NAO for its strategic partnership with the Institute for Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence and Technology (INSAIT), highlighting the natural link between AI and auditing, as both involve data analysis, detection, forecasting, and risk assessment.

AI assistants will relieve auditors from repetitive tasks and automate processes, allowing auditors to focus on analytical work. At the same time, auditors will oversee the technologies to ensure they serve the public interest, Zhelyazkov added.

The PM extended congratulations to the National Audit Office on its 145th anniversary of establishment and 30 years since its restoration.

Among the participants at the forum were Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Innovations and Growth Tomislav Donchev, Finance Minister Temenuzhka Petkova, Minister of e-Government Valentin Mundrov, and Bulgaria’s representative to the European Court of Auditors, Iliana Ivanova.