Romania and Bulgaria to host EU maritime security hub in Constanța and Varna

At a New York forum organized by the Atlantic Council, Romania's foreign minister Oana Țoiu confirmed that a European Union maritime security hub will be established jointly by Romania and Bulgaria in the ports of Constanța and Varna. The decision, she said, enables direct coordination with EU bodies, NATO and other Black Sea nations that are not aligned with Russia. Romania plans to leverage its domestic production of maritime drones and missile-defence boats, part of a Romanian-American supply line, to support the hub.

The minister also mentioned expanded naval cooperation with Bulgaria and Turkey on de-mining and critical-infrastructure protection. Over two billion euros have been earmarked for dual-use projects, including a highway linking to Moldova and upgrades to Constanța port’s surveillance capabilities. She linked the initiative to heightened regional risks stemming from Russia’s war in Ukraine and stressed that supporting Ukraine and a peace process are essential for lasting security.