Panel III, titled “Critical infrastructure in the exclusive economic zones of the Black Sea. How We Can Better Protect Our Economic Interests” was moderated by Commander (ret.) Mihai Știr, Associate Expert New Strategy Center. The discussion was joined by Mr. Raed ARAFAT, State Secretary, Head of Emergency Situations Department, Ministry of Interior, Romania, Rear Admiral Liviu COMAN, Commander of the Romanian Maritime Component, Naval Forces, Romania, Mr. James E. THOMSEN, former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Navy for Research, Development, USA Defense Department and Mr. Daniel DINU, Environmental & Regulatory Compliance
Department Manager NEPTUN DEEP PROJECT – OMV PETROM, Romania

The panel highlighted the multifaceted challenges of protecting critical infrastructure in the Black Sea’s Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs), emphasizing both operational and strategic concerns. The discussion underscored the importance of addressing sub-threshold threats, including mines and risks to undersea cables, while advocating for enhanced joint patrols, legal frameworks, and the deployment of advanced mine detection systems. Operationally, discussions focused on improving maritime assets for search and rescue, firefighting, and medical response, with the recommendation of a unified emergency response system akin to 112. Additionally, the necessity of inter-ministerial coordination across defense, transport, energy, and digitalization sectors was highlighted. The conversation also emphasized ongoing efforts to integrate Maritime Autonomous Vehicles (MAVs) into fleet operations and the growing role of defense institutions in securing maritime infrastructure.