Sofia Security Forum and New Strategy Center organized on Friday, September 19, an event entitled “EU Strategy for the Black Sea and Bulgaria-Romania cooperation for the protection of offshore infrastructure”, which was attended by representatives of several institutions from the two states, as well as by companies involved in energy projects.

The discussions focused on ways of bilateral cooperation for assessing risks to the Han Asparuh project, in Bulgaria, and the Neptun Deep project, in Romania, in the context of the war in Ukraine and the continuation of hybrid threats, even after a potential ceasefire between the belligerents. Experts and officials present pointed out that mines, cyberattacks, drones, blocking of areas in the Black Sea under the pretext of naval exercises, and false-flag operations are dangers that can affect freedom of navigation, energy projects, and connectivity projects.

The EU Strategy for the Black Sea is an opportunity for Romania and Bulgaria to develop joint instruments, within the Maritime Security Hub, for the protection of critical energy infrastructure and communication cables, in order to respond to crisis situations.

Participants addressed issues related to cooperation between institutions at the national level, as well as bilaterally, various legislative aspects, and shared experience gained in rescue operations during emergency situations.

SSF and NSC stated that they intend to organize similar events in the future, aimed at strengthening cooperation between Romania and Bulgaria in strategic projects, such as the protection of critical energy infrastructure. The Black Sea projects of the two countries will ensure their energy independence and will also have a major impact on improving energy security at the regional and EU level. In 2027, Romania will become the largest gas producer in the EU as a result of the start of production in the Neptun Deep perimeter, while Bulgaria, once it begins exploitation of the Han Asparuh perimeter, will cover all its domestic consumption and become a major exporter in the region. At present, the project is in the phase of extending exploration operations, which will take place from the end of this year until mid-2026.

The event in Sofia is part of the series of actions organized by New Strategy Center to promote the strategic importance of the Black Sea, as well as bilateral cooperation between Romania and Bulgaria.