Bulgaria proposes safe navigation zone in the Black Sea

Bulgaria has proposed creating a zone of safe and free navigation in the Black Sea. President Iliana Iotova said at the UN General Assembly that Sofia is preparing the initiative and plans to discuss it with countries in the region and other interested parties.

According to her, the goal should be to transform the Black Sea from a high-risk area into a space with safe transport, energy and trade corridors. Bulgaria is seeking joint action by regional countries to ensure freedom and safety of civilian shipping.

Iotova also highlighted agricultural trade. She said problems with grain and fertilizer exports could affect food security in import-dependent countries and could also have an impact on the 2027 harvest.

Bulgaria’s initiative comes amid growing risks to shipping in the Black Sea. Navigation disruptions in the region are complicating trade and deliveries of grain, fertilizers and other cargoes to global markets.

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Tags: Bulgaria, Black Sea region, war, Black Sea grain corridor