The Black Sea in Focus
Assoc. Prof. Eleonora Tankova, PhD, Vice-Rector of Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”, and Assoc. Prof. Elisaveta Kalinova, PhD, Dean of the Faculty of Law, took part in the International Black Sea 2030 Forum and the International Scientific Conference “Sea” in Burgas. The events brought together representatives of European and national institutions, academia, business and international networks to discuss security and sustainable development in the Black Sea region. The second edition of the Black Sea 2030 Forum was held at the International Congress Centre in Burgas under the motto “Security, Sustainability, Innovation”. It was organised by Burgas Municipality and the Prospekti M Association. Discussions covered regional security, marine environmental protection and the application of new technologies, with a focus on practical projects, cooperation and young people's involvement in the sustainable development of the region.
The forum was opened by Burgas Mayor Dimitar Nikolov. Guests and participants included representatives of the European Commission, the European Space Agency, government institutions, universities and technology companies. Discussions addressed maritime and energy security, climate change adaptation, and opportunities for cooperation between academia, business and local authorities.
During their visit, the Varna Free University representatives also attended the International “Sea” Conference, organised by the Marine Scientific Society Association and hosted by Burgas Free University. The conference focused on the theme “Security and Sustainability”, while the opening panel explored the links between the circular and blue economies, security and the sustainable development of the Black Sea.
The plenary speaker was George Kremlis, Honorary Director of the Directorate-General for Environment at the European Commission and Doctor Honoris Causa of Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”. He is the Director of the Institute for Circular Economy, Environment, Energy and Climate at the European Public Law Organization. The panel also featured representatives of the European scientific community and heads of higher education institutions and research organisations.
Varna Free University has extensive experience in education and training in the field of the circular economy. Its master's degree programme in Circular Economy is the first of its kind in the European Union, with George Kremlis serving as its patron. Its graduates include representatives of municipal administrations, non-governmental organisations and entrepreneurs who, during their studies, develop solutions for the efficient use of resources, environmental protection and sustainable development.
The conference also marked International Black Sea Day, observed on 31st October, and the 30th anniversary of the signing of the Strategic Action Plan for the Rehabilitation and Protection of the Black Sea.
Photos: Burgas Municipality and personal archive