Velislava Petrova: The strategic geographical location gives Bulgaria the opportunity to establish itself as an intersection of transport corridors
26 October 2026 News
Bulgaria can fully utilize its strategic geographical location and establish itself as an intersection of transport corridors that provide Europe with alternative routes. Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova said at the seventh edition of the Sofia Economic Forum.
Minister Petrova participated in a discussion panel on economic resilience in the face of geopolitical shocks, the development of transport and energy connectivity and the challenges for regional security. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia, Maka Bochorishvili, also participated in the discussion.
"Geographical advantages alone do not guarantee economic benefits. To turn them into real opportunities, a strategic vision, concrete political decisions, international cooperation and investments are needed", emphasized Velislava Petrova.
According to Minister Petrova, connectivity is a topic that should unite political efforts in the interest of Bulgaria. In her words, transport corridors should be developed as comprehensive projects, not as separate infrastructure sections, with a clear economic rationale and potential for attracting investment.
Minister Petrova highlighted the improvement of transport connections with Turkey and Romania as a priority for Bulgaria. She focused on projects to expand border crossing points with Turkey, the development of railway infrastructure from the Turkish border north to Romania and bridges over the Danube. The Minister added that overcoming existing infrastructure constraints is key to Bulgaria's full inclusion in international transport corridors.
Regarding security in the Black Sea region, Minister Petrova stressed that the ongoing military actions have an impact on stability in the region, freedom of navigation and the security of merchant ships. She highlighted the need for active diplomatic efforts to end hostilities and achieve sustainable peace.
Within the forum, Minister Petrova also held a bilateral meeting with Maka Bochorishvili, a continuation of their dialogue during the UN General Assembly in New York in September. The Bulgarian Foreign Minister confirmed our country's support for the European and Euro-Atlantic aspirations of Georgian society and for Georgia's democratic and European future.
The two also discussed the upcoming in the spring of 2027 Regional connectivity summit hosted by Bulgaria. The forum will place special emphasis on investments and concrete projects to develop transport, energy and economic links between Europe and neighbouring regions.
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