Minister Ivan Ivanov discussed opportunities for upgrading the cooperation between Bulgaria and Austria with Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm

The Minister of Regional Development and Public Works Ivan Ivanov held a meeting with the Ambassador of the Republic of Austria to Bulgaria H.E. Andrea Ikic-Böhm. The two discussed a wide range of issues related to continuing and building on the good cooperation between the two countries. Deputy Minister Dora Yankova also took part in the conversation. "Austria has traditionally been an important political and economic partner of Bulgaria. Our bilateral relations are close and friendly. For us, it is important to expand our partnership in the implementation of projects for modernization and construction of road infrastructure, as well as in the field of energy efficiency of the building stock, application of new energy-saving technologies, digitalisation of the construction sector, regional policy and urban development, "said Minister Ivanov. He also presented Bulgaria’s priorities as the rotating president of the EU Strategy for the Danube Region from 1 January 2026. ‘The Strategy is part of the development policy of the Danube regions given its importance for transport connectivity, the economy and tourism. We will put a clear political focus on its role as a strategic framework for reducing economic, social and territorial disparities. The strategy provides the necessary platform for coordination and solidarity between countries in a context of persistent divergence, especially in peripheral, rural and cross-border areas," the regional minister further said. Among the other priorities of our country will be cohesion policy, so that European funds, national programmes and regional needs are better connected and focused on integrated development, as well as support for a European perspective of the countries in the region that are in the process of joining the EU. Emphasis will be placed on deepening cooperation on the Danube-Black Sea axis, including through synergies with other regional initiatives in support of shared strategic objectives. Minister Ivanov also noted that the interest in the Presidency is great. There are inquiries and proposals from different groups from the priority areas, as well as from municipalities, institutions, scientific units and non-governmental organizations. A calendar of events to be held in 2026 is currently being prepared. In this regard, the regional minister invited Ambassador Ikic-Böhm for joint initiatives with the Embassy and representatives of the Austrian central and local authorities.

 "It will be a privilege for us to work on joint projects under the Danube Strategy because it brings people and people together. We are all connected by the river, and it is important to represent what unites us in culture," said Ambassador Ikic-Böhm. She also stressed the importance of the Strategy for the Danube Region for continuing the EU enlargement process and involving young people with the opportunities and tools of the Strategy for creating links and partnerships.