Bulgaria proposes Black Sea initiative for maritime safety

Bulgaria is preparing an international diplomatic initiative to ensure the freedom and safety of navigation in the Black Sea. During an address to the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, Bulgarian President Iliana Iotova stated that Sofia intends to coordinate an agreement with regional countries and other interested parties to address rising maritime risks.

President Iotova emphasized that the security and stability of the Black Sea region are integral to Bulgaria’s national security, noting that Russia’s war against Ukraine has directly affected the area beyond territorial waters. The initiative aims to transform the Black Sea from a high-risk zone into a space for shared security, trade, energy, and digital corridors through coordinated joint actions and common rules.