Ruse hosted a discussion on the future of the Danube region and European connectivity

Tuesday, 26 May 2026

MEPs, representatives of institutions, the academic community, business, students and pupils participated in the discussion “Bulgaria – a driver of cohesion, sustainability and development along the Danube”, organized by the Delegation of the Bulgarian Socialists in the European Parliament.

The event was held at the University of Ruse “Angel Kanchev” and was dedicated to the opportunities for development of the Danube region in the context of the Bulgarian presidency of the EU Danube Strategy for 2026. Among the main topics were transport and river connectivity, the investment potential of the region, cross-border cooperation, the role of education and the future of the cohesion policy of the European Union.

The forum was opened by MEPs Kristian Vigenin and Tsvetelina Penkova, as well as by the Honorary Rector of the University of Ruse, Academician Hristo Beloev. Among the participants were the Mayor of Ruse Municipality Pencho Milkov, the Rector of the University of Ruse Assoc. Prof. Desislava Atanasova, the National Coordinator of the Danube Strategy for Bulgaria Vyara Mincheva, representatives of the Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Danube Dredging Fleet and experts in the field of regional development.

Mayor Pencho Milkov stressed that Ruse views the Danube not as a border, but as an opportunity for connectivity and development. “The river does not divide countries, but connects economies, cultures and societies,” he said. According to him, the development of the region requires consistent investments in river infrastructure, railway connectivity, intermodal transport and modern logistics zones, so that the Danube can establish itself as a real European economic corridor. Milkov also emphasized the importance of education, innovation and training of young professionals. “We cannot talk about a modern economy and sustainable development without investments in knowledge, technology and young people,” said the mayor, pointing to the good partnership between the Municipality of Ruse, the University of Ruse and schools in the development of STEM education, robotics and digital skills.

Acad. Hristo Beloev emphasized that the University of Ruse and Ruse have a natural role in the development of cooperation along the Danube. He noted that the university maintains active partnerships and joint initiatives with universities and organizations from all countries along the Danube, and the accumulated scientific and expert potential creates opportunities for even broader international cooperation.

The first panel discussed topics related to transport and river connectivity along the Danube, infrastructure challenges, the logistical and investment potential of the region, the development of the cross-border economy and the role of education in training personnel.

The second panel was dedicated to the EU’s macro-regional strategies, the future of cohesion policy and the place of the Danube region on the European agenda.

The participants in the forum united around the need for stronger connectivity, targeted investments and active partnerships between institutions, businesses and educational organizations in order for the Danube Region to establish itself as a key axis for economic development and European integration.

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