President: Regional security and connectivity system is the future of SEECP

Bulgarian President Iliana Iotova on Wednesday called on Southeast European countries to build a common regional security framework and strengthen energy, transport and digital connectivity across the region.

Speaking at the opening of the South-East European Cooperation Process (SEECP) Summit in Sofia, Iotova said the region must turn unity into a key instrument for stability and development amid growing global challenges.

The SEECP brings together 13 countries: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Kosovo, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia and Turkey.

Among the priorities outlined by Iotova were the accelerated construction of Corridor VIII linking Bulgaria, North Macedonia and Albania, the development of the Danube transport corridor, the expansion of regional energy interconnections and closer cooperation in cybersecurity and digital technologies.

She also highlighted the need for regional programmes aimed at young people, scientific exchange, innovation and technological cooperation.

The forum in Sofia marks the conclusion of Bulgaria's chairmanship of the SEECP, which will be assumed by Romania.

Editor: Miglena Ivanova