Invitation for International Conference „The Black Sea and Eastern Europe: Key to European Security“, organized by E.L.E.C. Bulgaria and the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (BAS)

 Grand Hotel Sofia, 12 October 2026г. 

We are pleased to invite you to the international conference “The Black Sea and Eastern Europe: Key to European Security“, organised by the European League for Economic Cooperation (ELEC) and the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (BAS), to be held on 12 October 2026 at the Grand Hotel Sofia, Bulgaria. The conference will be held under the auspices of H.E. Iliana Iotova, President of the Republic of Bulgaria, and will mark the 80th anniversary of the European League for Economic Cooperation.

Bringing together policymakers, diplomats, academics, security experts, business representatives and technology specialists, the conference will examine the evolving strategic role of the Black Sea as a critical link between Europe and Asia and as a key dimension of European security, resilience and economic prosperity.

Key topics will include geopolitical and security developments, energy and financial security, maritime and critical infrastructure security, emerging and hybrid threats, climate change and environmental resilience, and the sustainable development of the blue economy. Particular attention will be given to the role of space technologies in strengthening security and preparedness, including satellite-based Earth observation, maritime monitoring, situational awareness, early-warning and crisis-management systems, and the protection of critical infrastructure and strategic supply routes.

The conference will seek to foster international cooperation, innovation and partnerships aimed at enhancing security, stability, environmental resilience and sustainable development across the Black Sea region. A crucial turning point for Europe and its future security, in relation to the war in Ukraine and the Black Sea, as well as in the context of the EU’s strategy for the Black Sea region.

Organising Committee