Sofia:Turkish, Bulgarian, and Romanian defense ministers have emphasized the critical role of the Black Sea in international trade and the supply chain for grain, fertilizers, and energy. This statement followed the Trkiye-Bulgaria-Romania Meeting of Defense Ministers and Chiefs of General Staff held in Sofia.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, Turkish National Defense Minister Yasar Guler, Bulgarian Defense Minister Dimitar Stoyanov, and Romanian Defense Minister Stefan-Radu Oprea attended the meeting. The ministers expressed strong condemnation of attacks against commercial vessels in the Black Sea, underscoring the importance of freedom of navigation and maritime security.

The joint statement highlighted that disruptions to maritime traffic pose threats to global supply chains, food, and energy security, especially in vulnerable regions such as Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. The ministers called on all parties to refrain from actions that could jeopardize commercial vessels, maritime infrastructure, and freedom of navigation in the Black Sea.

In their statement, they expressed regret over the loss of seafarers' lives due to these attacks and showed solidarity with the affected states. The statement urged adherence to international law, including the Montreux Convention, to ensure Black Sea security and regional stability. It also noted the contributions of Bulgaria, Romania, and Trkiye, as NATO allies, to the region's security needs.

The defense ministers agreed to enhance cooperation in information and intelligence sharing, maritime situational awareness, and early-warning capabilities, coordinating with NATO as necessary. The statement also mentioned the continuation of strengthened cooperation among the three countries' armed forces to support security and stability in the Black Sea.

Further consultations, information exchanges, and practical measures to bolster regional security and stability are planned, with the next meetings scheduled to take place in Ankara and Bucharest.