The Black Sea–Balkans Connectivity Architecture
🌍 Do you want to learn more about the Black Sea–Balkans Connectivity Architecture and the geopolitical and economic dynamics shaping the Black Sea region?
Join us for an afternoon of research, expert insights and networking as we explore the strategic role of the Black Sea and the Balkans in connecting Europe with Ukraine, the Caucasus and Central Asia.
🌐 Working language: English
📍 The event, organised by Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Bulgaria, will feature:
🔹 Welcome Address
Norbert Beckmann-Dierkes, Director Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Bulgaria
🎤 Setting the Stage – Video Address by Yordan Ivanov, Member of the Bulgarian National Assembly and Chair of the Committee on Transport and Communications, sharing his perspective on Bulgaria’s role in strengthening Europe’s eastern connectivity and unlocking the strategic potential of the Black Sea gateway.
🔹 Research Presentation
The Black Sea–Balkans Connectivity Architecture: Building a Resilient European Gateway to Ukraine, the Caucasus and Central Asia
Presented by Martin Yanev, Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Fellow in Bulgaria.
Moderator: Alexandra Kirilova, Social Media Manager RESECO Bulgaria
🔹 Expert Discussion Panel
Europe’s Strategic Connectivity: The Black Sea, Ukraine and the Road to Central Asia
Bringing together perspectives from politics, business and foreign policy, the panel will examine Bulgaria’s role in regional connectivity, the opportunities for European businesses and the geopolitical significance of the Black Sea and its emerging transport and trade corridors.
Speakers:
Christian Hirschmann, General Director of Azurite Europe and Sales Director of Azurite Group
Maria Simeonova, Head of Sofia Office and Policy Fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR)
Political Representative (TBG)
Moderator: Zlatozara Stoilova, Project Manager Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Bulgaria
🤝 Networking Cocktail
Continue the conversation, exchange perspectives and connect with representatives from business, politics, diplomacy, academia and the expert community.
Join us for an engaging discussion on how connectivity is reshaping our region and creating new opportunities for cooperation.
We look forward to welcoming you!