Bulgaria has assumed the role as the coordinator of the CMA for the Black Sea for 2026, succeeding Ukraine, which held this role in 2025. The Bulgarian coordination aims to advance regional cooperation, environmental protection, innovation, and the sustainable development of the Black Sea blue economy. Under its 2026 work plan, Bulgaria will focus on four strategic priorities:
Sustainable tourism and underwater cultural heritage
The Bulgarian coordination will support the development, promotion and preservation of underwater and coastal cultural heritage, recognising its importance for sustainable development and regional cooperation. Efforts will focus on supporting joint activities and increasing the visibility of the Black Sea’s unique cultural legacy. Planned actions include promoting best practices and partnerships at local, national and regional levels; developing regional approaches that integrate underwater cultural heritage into sustainable tourism; supporting joint research projects and the deployment of blue technologies and digital solutions; and strengthening capacity-building in cooperation with relevant stakeholders and organisations. These activities will be carried out through coordinated engagement within the established SustTourism Technical Group.
Safety, security, and sustainability of maritime shipping
A second priority is to promote safe, efficient and sustainable maritime transport, in line with the new EU Black Sea Strategy. Particular attention will be given to assessing Sea Traffic Management (STM) systems, which enable shore-based and onboard operational decision-making through real-time data. STM has the potential to optimise port operations, reduce fuel consumption and emissions (included through the added value of the Smart Specialisation Partnership on alternative fuel), ease administrative burdens and minimise human-related risks.
Synergy between the Black Sea and the Danube region
Close coordination will be pursued in connection with the Bulgarian Presidency of the EU Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR), with the aim of strengthening regional integration, cohesion and sustainability across macro-regional frameworks. The Danube–Black Sea axis represents a strategic corridor for connectivity, economic cooperation and sustainable development. Bulgaria will also continue to promote alignment with the Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda for the Black Sea (SRIA) and the EU Mission “Restore our Ocean and Waters”, which seek to improve ocean health, resilience and productivity while supporting prosperous coastal communities.
Black Sea aquaculture, skills and innovation ecosystems
Bulgaria will further advance sustainable aquaculture, innovation, skills development, and technology transfer, contributing to a resilient and competitive blue economy. Cooperation will be enhanced by establishing synergies with Knowledge and Innovation Communities (KICs), the SustAqua Technical Group and relevant EU and regional initiatives, bringing together research, industry, policymakers and young professionals.
Upcoming national events and the CMA Annual Conference are expected to further strengthen strategic dialogue and support the implementation of priority actions. Through this comprehensive and multi-dimensional approach, Bulgaria’s coordination of the CMA in 2026 reaffirms its commitment to continuity, a long-term strategic vision and an effective response to emerging regional needs and opportunities in the Black Sea.