Foreign ministers of the European Union countries will discuss the implementation of the EU’s new Black Sea strategy at a meeting on July 13, one year after its launch, focusing on security issues, transport connectivity, and cooperation with the countries of the South Caucasus.

According to the agenda of the EU Foreign Affairs Council, the ministers will review the initial results of the strategy’s implementation and exchange views on further steps.

Brussels sees the Black Sea region as one of the key elements of European security, energy resilience, and trade connectivity against the backdrop of Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine.

The EU views the South Caucasus as an important link in a new system of transport and energy connectivity between Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia. The strategy places special emphasis on the development of the Middle Corridor, which Europe considers one of the priority routes for diversifying trade and logistics.

The European Union also links the region’s long-term stability to a final peace settlement between Azerbaijan and Armenia. In Brussels’ assessment, the conclusion of a peace agreement could open up new opportunities for trade, investment, and the development of transport links in the South Caucasus.

A special place in the strategy is assigned to Turkey, which the EU sees as one of the key players in the Black Sea region and an important partner in the areas of security, energy, and transport, despite continuing disagreements on a number of foreign policy issues.

The ministers are expected to discuss not only the implementation of initiatives already proposed, but also additional steps needed to turn the Black Sea Strategy from a political concept into practical projects, including the development of transport links through the South Caucasus and the strengthening of regional stability.