The EU is introducing a new strategy for a stable and secure Black Sea region. This strategy aims to boost connections and growth by linking Europe with the South Caucasus, Central Asia, and beyond. Amidst Russias war against Ukraine, the strategy will also enhance the EUs geopolitical role as a reliable actor in the Black Sea region.
The EU will forge closer cooperation with Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova, Georgia, Türkiye, Armenia and Azerbaijan and advance regional cooperation on connectivity. Some of these countries have chosen the path toward EU accession or closer alignment with the EU. Todays strategy seeks to bring tangible benefits to Black Sea partners and the EU by investing in and deepening key mutually beneficial partnerships.
Three pillars for future EU-Black Sea cooperation
Future cooperation with the Black Sea region is structured under three pillars:
- Enhancing security, stability, and resilience;
- Fostering sustainable growth and prosperity;
- Promoting environmental protection, climate change resilience and preparedness, and civil protection.
Together with its partners in the region, the EU will implement three flagship initiatives under each of these pillars to unlock the regions growth potential while addressing immediate challenges of conflict and security:
- The Black Sea Maritime Security and the establishment of a Black Sea Maritime Security Hub will strengthen maritime safety and infrastructure and enhance regional cooperation.
- A dedicated Connectivity Agenda – aligned with the extended Trans-European Networks – will develop transport, energy, and digital networks to leverage the Black Sea region as a vital corridor.
- Preparedness of coastal communities and blue economy sectors will be reinforced to enable Black Sea countries to tackle war-related environmental damage.
The strategy will bring together all relevant EU instruments and policies, mobilizing investments in line with the Global Gateway Strategy and in a Team Europe spirit – that is, the EU institutions in cooperation with the Member States.
President Ursula von der Leyen stated: “An active role of the European Union is crucial in advancing security and peace in the Black Sea region, especially with Russias war against Ukraine. We will closely work with our neighbors to foster security and stability in the region. Together we can build a stronger and more prosperous future for all.”
A forward-looking policy framework
The Black Sea can serve as a cornerstone of stability, sustainable development, and connectivity through partnerships of shared interest. The EU seeks to unlock the regions potential based on peace efforts and respect for the international order.
Todays proposal will drive sustainable development and enhance economic prosperity with transport, energy, digital, and trade corridors connecting the Black Sea Region to the Baltic, the Mediterranean, through the South Caucasus, the Caspian Sea, and towards Central Asia.
Given the Black Sea regions vulnerability to natural and human-made disasters, todays strategy foresees reinforcing preparedness and climate adaptation, crucial for the integrity of natural ecosystems.
The EU will further guide interested partners toward EU integration by strengthening the rule of law and accelerating reforms.
The new strategic approach is rooted in peoples aspirations to live in a secure and prosperous environment. The EU will implement the new strategic approach in synergy with the enlargement process and the Eastern Partnership.
Next steps
The European Commission and the High Representative propose a dedicated EU ministerial meeting with partner countries to advance cooperation.
Background
The Black Sea is a pivotal gateway linking Europe, the South Caucasus, Central Asia, and the Mediterranean. Stability in the region is crucial for international trade, food security, and broader geopolitical stability.
Russias unprovoked and unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine has severely destabilized the region, exposing security interdependencies. The EUs role and responsibility in the Black Sea region are increasing, especially with the opening of accession negotiations with Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova.
The EUs strategic approach to the Black Sea region is part of a broader package of EU policy initiatives, such as the recently adopted European Union Preparedness Strategy and other initiatives.
This reflects a coordinated approach within the EU, focusing on defense, resilience, and preparedness in the current global geopolitical context.
The EU strategic approach to the Black Sea region will further build on successful work strands developed under the Black Sea Synergy.
In this context, the Global Gateway strategy will play a significant role. Global Gateway promotes smart, clean, and secure connections in digital, energy, and transport sectors.