EUR 19.6 Million Allocated for Tourism and Environmental Initiatives in Bulgaria and Turkey

September 13, 2025 - 05:52

The Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works has announced a significant investment of EUR 19.6 million aimed at enhancing tourism, infrastructure, economic activities, and environmental protection through the Bulgaria–Turkey Cross-Border Cooperation Programme for 2021–2027. This initiative was highlighted during a recent event where Deputy Regional Development Minister Yura Vitanova and Bulent Ozcan from the Turkish Foreign Ministry presented symbolic vouchers to project partners, marking the official launch of the projects.

Deputy Minister Vitanova expressed optimism about the 30 projects set to be implemented by municipalities, non-governmental organizations, and businesses, emphasizing the importance of these initiatives for future collaboration between the two nations. With 100% of the programme’s resources activated and 74% of the funds already contracted, the minister believes these projects will strengthen ties in regions such as Yambol, Haskovo, Burgas, Edirne, and Kırklareli.

Of the total funding, EUR 6.3 million will focus on promoting energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, while the remaining EUR 13.3 million is designated for tourism and infrastructure improvements across 13 Bulgarian municipalities. This includes the renovation of archaeological and cultural sites along the Bulgarian-Turkish border to enhance their appeal to tourists.