B4 Meeting: EU Enlargement and Regional Connectivity

Bulgarian Foreign Minister Georgi Georgiev participated in a working breakfast with his counterparts from Greece, Romania, and Croatia – the so-called B4 format – within the framework of the High-Level Week and the General Debate of the 70th session of the UN General Assembly in New York.

The event took place in a lively atmosphere, filled with the diplomatic nuances characteristic of such high-level meetings. The four ministers, representing the Balkan EU member states, held in-depth discussions focused on key regional issues.

Central Themes of the Discussions

A central theme of the discussions was the European integration of the six countries neighboring the EU, still outside the Union. The ministers also discussed connectivity issues, as well as the key issue of military mobility in the region – an area that is essential for the stability and security of the Balkans.

EU enlargement is a natural priority for all of us. Although our national positions on individual dossiers do not always coincide, we share common strategic interests, which is a solid basis for close coordination and interaction on enlargement policy and related issues on the EU agenda.

He emphasized the importance of unity in the decision-making process, arguing that "I am convinced that we have a common understanding of the importance of good neighborly relations and respect for the rights of persons belonging to national minorities as essential elements of the enlargement process".

Minister Georgiev expressed his categorical opinion, stressing that Bulgaria has taken its own path to adopt the European Consensus of July 2022, based on human rights as a fundamental value of the EU.

We remain determined to adhere to it and will not accept any actions by Skopje, political or legal, aimed at circumventing, renegotiating, or undermining it. I will continue to urge other member states to avoid any ambiguity that would encourage Skopje to continue its non-constructive actions and statements.

His firm message clearly demonstrates Bulgaria"s determination to defend EU principles.

Regarding connectivity, Georgi Georgiev highlighted Bulgaria"s active work together with its EU partners to expand and complete road and rail infrastructure, as well as in the areas of energy and digital connectivity. The goal, in his words, is to expand the economic, transport, and energy opportunities of the entire region, contributing to more comprehensive and prosperous cooperation.

a good example of how regional formats can contribute to a stronger and more coordinated European Union, especially when, as in the case of the B4 initiative, the focus is on common strategic priorities such as enlargement and connectivity.

The meeting was clearly crucial for defining a common strategy of the Balkan EU member states on a number of key issues.