State joins forces to put ports of Burgas and Varna on global map.

The meeting was attended by Minister Georgi Peev, Deputy Minister Anna Natova, representatives of state and private port operators, as well as industry organizations from maritime and river transport.

The participants outlined the critical challenges facing the Bulgarian sector, with the aim of better positioning the ports of Varna and Burgas on the global transport map amid increased regional competition. Among the main problems identified were insufficiently developed road and railway infrastructure, an outdated regulatory framework and the need for a new port management model.

Regarding navigation on the Danube River, it was noted that there have been no systemic problems with shipping in the Bulgarian section over the past four years. Minister Peev assured the industry that the government plans to raise the issue of increased fees for passage through the Bosphorus at a high level in the upcoming interstate talks with Turkey.

As an important step toward further joint action, the participants agreed that within two weeks the representatives of the Bulgarian Maritime Chamber, the Burgas Maritime Association and port operators along the Danube River would submit brief and realistic proposals to the Ministry of Transport and Communications, outlining the most urgent problems and solutions.

The goal is to achieve a common position among the stakeholders, which will be included in the preparation of the future strategy for the development of water transport in Bulgaria, the next legislative changes and the implementation of the master plans, Minister Peev added.

As a key negotiating lever for Bulgaria, the country will use the fact that its southern neighbour’s road and rail exports to Europe pass mainly through Bulgarian territory, as well as Turkey’s increased interest in developing new railway links and alternative routes.