The EU unveiled a new Black Sea strategy on Wednesday that will allow the region to better transport heavy military gear as the Russian threat looms over Eastern Europe.
The strategy is also a response to “geopolitical challenges” in a world where “dependencies are being weaponized,” said Marta Kos, commissioner for EU enlargement. The Black Sea is a bridge to the South Caucasus and Central Asia, and a vital artery for energy and food trade, she said.
Romania and Bulgaria are the EU countries on the Black Sea coast and the bloc will invest in upgrading regional infrastructure, such as ports, railways and airports, to handle heavy military equipment. This will help to ensure “troops can be where they are needed when they are needed,” Kallas said.
The EU also plans to establish a Black Sea Maritime Security Hub, which will serve as Europe’s early warning system in the region. Kallas said the hub will raise situational awareness and help the EU protect its critical infrastructure. The location of the hub, its operational model and costs are still to be determined, she added.
Another security move is an increased monitoring of foreign ownership of ports and other key facilities, Kallas said.
On trade, the EU will develop new energy corridors, transport links and digital infrastructure with regional partners, according to Kos. The bloc will also invest in the preparedness of coastal communities and the marine economy to deal with war-related environmental damage and respond to climate change risks.
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