Security and safety of cross-border territories are the focus of new joint programmes with Turkey and the Republic of North Macedonia

We are implementing a pilot project to manage migration processes along the border with Turkey

Bulgaria is planning to channel around 6 million euro in strategic projects to improve security and safety of the border areas with Turkey and the Republic of North Macedonia in the 2021-2027 programming period. The funds are set as indicative values in the new European programmes for cross-border cooperation with the two countries. This was announced by Deputy Minister of Regional Development and Public Works Denitsa Nikolova, who participated in the 18th European Week of Regions and Cities.  The forum, which this year is dedicated to security, is one of the largest for regional policy, bringing together cities and regions from across Europe.

Due to restrictions from Covid 19, the event is being held online.  

Nikolova said that currently in the joint programme with Turkey an indicative 2 million euros have been earmarked for a strategic project for the management of migration processes in the border region.  Although there has been a decrease in migration flows since the end of 2016, activities are planned with a focus on prevention and improving the operational work of the border guard authorities.  The project also foresees the construction of a training centre for officers as well as the supply of specialised equipment, transport and technical means to improve operational cooperation within 2 years from the signing of the contract.

"We expect it to contribute to the socio-economic development of the border area, strengthening economic activities and interaction between people, as well as to minimise negative externalities in the area of border security," Nikolova stressed.

Around EUR 4 million are indicatively earmarked in the Bulgaria - Macedonia Cross-border Cooperation Programme for a strategic project for the construction of a border crossing point "Strumyani - Berovo" between Bulgaria and the Republic of North Macedonia.  With the funds on the Bulgarian side the missing road section to the border will be built, as well as the facilities needed for the checkpoint, while on the Macedonian side the rehabilitation of the completed routes and the modernization of the built border facilities are envisaged, Nikolova further said.  Over the last few years, our country has upgraded more than 21 km of roads leading to the crossing point, with about 8.8 km still to be built. The checkpoint will reduce the distance between the two municipalities by 80 km.

"The opening of a new border crossing point will have a positive economic, political and social impact on the cross-border region.  Politically, it would contribute to the further development of the already established good-neighbourly relations between the Republic of Bulgaria and the Republic of North Macedonia," the Deputy Regional Minister reported.

According to Deputy Minister Nikolova, the issue of security and safety in the EU is key given the challenges we have faced in recent years.  "Cross-border programmes help immensely in tackling these types of challenges as they always affect more than one country.  With joint action, there are very quick results, which are of paramount importance," Nikolova noted.