The South-East European Cooperation Process (SEECP)
04 July 2025 Events and Discussions
The South-East European Cooperation Process (SEECP) is a key political format aimed at building trust, fostering cooperation, and promoting good neighborly relations among the countries of South-East Europe (SEE). Over the course of its existence, it has evolved into the main regional platform for dialogue in the area. The Republic of Bulgaria is the initiator of the SEECP. The initiative was launched at the Sofia Meeting of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the SEE countries, held on 6–7 July 1996. During this meeting, the Sofia Declaration on Good Neighborly Relations, Stability, Security, and Cooperation in the Balkans was adopted.
On 1 July 2025, the Republic of Bulgaria assumed the Chairmanship-in-Office of the SEECP for the fourth time, in accordance with the SEECP Charter, which provides for a one-year rotating chairmanship. The current Bulgarian Chairmanship will conclude on 30 June 2026, coinciding with the 30th anniversary of the Process’s establishment. Throughout this period, Sofia will continue to emphasize the shared values and common goals of the region. Efforts will focus on promoting inclusive cooperation, aligned with the principles and values of the European Union and adapted to the challenges of our time.
Under the motto “A Compass for Stability, Security, and Resilience” and guided by the vision of a more connected, green, secure, and prosperous region, the Chairmanship will focus on the following key priorities:
- European integration of the SEECP countries
- Competitiveness and human capital
- Regional connectivity, energy sustainability, and sustainable economic growth
- Strengthening resilience and countering hybrid threats
Further information about the South-East European Cooperation Process, including its initiatives and current developments, is available here (https://www.seecp.info/about-seecp)