site.btaBulgaria Driving Connectivity Efforts in Europe, President Iliana Iotova Says in Yerevan

President Iliana Iotova said that Bulgaria is playing a leading role in advancing connectivity across Europe during discussions at the Eighth Summit of the European Political Community, held in Yerevan, the presidential press service said on Monday. The forum brings together nearly 50 heads of state and government and aims to promote political dialogue and cooperation to strengthen security, stability and prosperity across the continent.

Iotova emphasized that connectivity is not merely a strategic choice but a guarantee of shared security, from the economy to defence, adding that Bulgaria is not only an active partner but also a driving force in these processes.

She stressed that the time had come for national projects to be integrated into broader geographic and economic connectivity, noting that Southeastern Europe serves as a strategic bridge between Europe, Asia and the Middle East. She pointed out that times of crisis also create new opportunities and highlighted Bulgaria’s active role in projects related to energy and transport connectivity across the continent.

Iotova said that global conflicts have demonstrated the need to strengthen energy independence and diversify energy sources, underlining the key role of the Greece – Bulgaria gas interconnector in this effort.

She said that Bulgaria was among the first countries to expand its gas storage capacity following the 2022 gas crisis and highlighted the importance of one of the largest initiatives, the Vertical Gas Corridor linking Greece, Bulgaria, Romania and Hungary, adding that the Bulgarian section is nearly complete.

The President also said that Bulgaria is working to expand renewable energy infrastructure, particularly along the Black Sea coast, as well as solar systems. She added that Bulgaria remains one of the strongest and most consistent supporters of clean and safe nuclear energy, at a time when the European Union is reassessing its position on the issue.

Iotova underscored the importance of transport connectivity, calling for accelerated construction of Corridor VIII, which will link Bulgaria, North Macedonia and Albania, effectively connecting the Adriatic and Black Seas. She said that the project is important not only economically but also from a security perspective for both the region and Europe as a whole.

She added that such projects are key to the integration of the Western Balkans and will enhance bilateral connectivity as well as Europe’s broader transport network. The President also called for continued development of the Trans-European Transport Network.

Iotova highlighted the importance of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor for strengthening links between Europe and Asia, and stressed the need to build another bridge over the Danube River and complete the transport link between Silistra and Calarasi.

She also said Bulgaria has strengthened the role of its Black Sea ports, noting that such projects are important not only for the economy but also for the continent’s security. In addition, she pointed to the development of industrial zones around major cities to support investment and regional supply security.

The President highlighted Bulgaria’s strong position in emerging technologies, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence, noting that the country is among six selected by the European Commission to host an AI gigafactory.

Iotova also stressed the importance of the EU’s Multiannual Financial Framework, saying that preserving cohesion policy is essential for economic projects, regional connectivity and development, and that Bulgaria will firmly advocate for it.

Earlier in the day, the head of State said that the Vertical Gas Corridor has strategic importance for Europe’s energy security, adding that beyond its economic benefits, it also carries political significance at a time of serious geopolitical divisions and military conflicts.