site.btaUPDATED PM Zhelyazkov Participates in Berlin Process Leaders’ Summit

Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov participated in the Berlin Process Summit 2025,  which took place in London on Wednesday, the Government Information Service said. The 11th edition of the discussion forum brought together leaders from the Western Balkans, EU Member States, and international partners of the initiative, as well as representatives of international financial institutions.

During the plenary session, leaders discussed topics related to strengthening security by supporting vulnerable NATO allies, addressing the common threat of illegal migration, and promoting economic growth through enhanced regional cooperation.

In his speech, Zhelyazkov said that joint projects such as new bridges over the Danube, Transport Corridor VIII, and intermodal transport links in the south-north and west-east directions will have real added value for the economy and security not only of the region but of Europe as a whole. The Bulgarian Prime Minister underscored the importance of investment in regional infrastructure and connectivity, along with the development of reliable deterrence capabilities.

Zhelyazkov specifically highlighted the strategic importance of the Black Sea in the context of European and Euro-Atlantic security. Bulgaria strongly supports the strengthening of NATO and EU commitments aimed at enhancing maritime security, he noted. The Prime Minister pointed out that as an EU Member State and NATO ally located on the front line, Bulgaria is firmly committed to countering shared threats affecting Southeast Europe, including illegal migration, organized crime, and disinformation. "We are actively working to strengthen regional cooperation by improving border security, exchanging information, and launching joint initiatives with our neighbours," Zhelyazkov added. According to him, in view of the current challenges, it is necessary to think strategically and act decisively.

Zhelyazkov noted the role of the Berlin Process in promoting progress in the Western Balkan countries, encouraging dialogue, and achieving concrete results. He added that the priorities of this initiative coincide with those of Bulgaria as the current chair of the two regional formats – the South-East European Cooperation Process and the Organization of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation.

The Berlin Process was set up in 2014 as a platform for high-level cooperation between the governments of the six Western Balkan countries (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, the Republic of North Macedonia, Serbia, and Montenegro), along with European partners (Austria, Bulgaria, the United Kingdom, Germany, Greece, Italy, Poland, Slovenia, France, and Croatia). Its aim is to strengthen regional cooperation, support economic development, and accelerate the Western Balkans' efforts on their path to EU accession.