Bulgaria and Turkey: Strategic connectivity and a new railway project for Southeast Europe

14.08.2026 | Foreign policy

Prime Minister Rumen Radev and Minister Abdulkadir Uraloğlu discussed strengthening transport links, the construction of an alternative railway line, and energy cooperation between Bulgaria and Turkey.

Снимка от Andrei Stroe, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

New Horizons in Cooperation Between Bulgaria and Turkey

The future of our region will increasingly be defined by the connectivity between Bulgaria and Turkey as a factor for the development of Southeast Europe. This was stated by Prime Minister Rumen Radev during a meeting with the Minister of Transport of Turkey, Abdulkadir Uraloğlu.

Connectivity is important not only during crises, but also for stability, economic exchange, and the investment climate in the region.

Key Infrastructure Projects

The main focus of the talks was the construction of a new railway line Edirne - Lesovo - Elhovo - Yambol. It will serve as an alternative route to the busy Kapitan Andreevo - Kapikule border crossing, relieving land and rail transport.

Energy and Digitalization

Support for World-Class Events

Cooperation in the field of air transport was also discussed in view of the upcoming Eurovision music contest in Burgas. Istanbul Airport will support the capacity of Burgas Airport to welcome guests next May.