EU adopts new Black Sea strategy, emphasizing security and integration

The European Union has approved a new strategy outlining its strategic approach to the Black Sea region, according to EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas.

In a post on social media platform X, Kallas stated:
“Today, we adopt a new Strategy for the Black Sea – a region of great importance to the EU. We’re stepping up work on security with:
- A new Maritime Security Hub
- Improved military mobility
- Stronger cooperation against hybrid threats.”

Kallas emphasized the Black Sea's strategic significance due to its connection between Central Asia and Europe, highlighting its critical role in security, trade, and energy. She noted that countries in the region are strengthening ties with Europe, with Ukraine and Moldova progressing toward EU membership and Georgia potentially doing the same, should it return to the EU path.

However, she stressed that the region’s full potential remains constrained due to Russia’s ongoing war.

The strategy document details the EU’s support and incentives offered to interested partners in the integration process, underscoring the importance of aligning national policies with the EU’s foreign policy objectives.

“The EU will work closely with partners to align with the Common Foreign and Security Policy, including sanctions and defence policy,” the document states. “Special focus will be placed on reinforcing restrictive measures against Russia and Belarus, especially in terms of sanctions and their circumvention.”