GreekReporter.com - Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania to Sign EU Pact for North–South Transport Corridor - John Koutroumpis - October 19, 2025

 

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Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania to Sign EU Pact for North–South Transport Corridor

Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania to Sign EU Pact for North–South Transport Corridor

John Koutroumpis

October 19, 2025

Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, will launch a new cross-border transport corridor

Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, will launch a new cross-border transport corridor. Credit: Bougiotis Evangelos / AMNA

In November, Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania will sign a cooperation pact with the European Commission in Brussels, launching a new cross-border transport corridor that links the Aegean and Black Seas through modern highways and high-speed rail.

The initiative strengthens north–south connectivity in Eastern Europe and supports the EU’s plan to integrate trade and mobility networks across the continent. The new route will connect Greek ports with the Romanian and Bulgarian hinterlands and extend toward Moldova and Ukraine, improving economic, energy, and transport access throughout the region.

Commissioner pushes for rapid progress

European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism Apostolos Tzitzikostas called the corridor a “top European priority” and “a model of cross-border cooperation.” He urged all three countries to accelerate construction to deliver the project quickly.

Soon after assuming office, Tzitzikostas invited the transport ministers of Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania to Brussels to coordinate next steps. The upcoming pact sets out a detailed action plan with strict deadlines, ensuring that each country completes its section on schedule.

Economic and geopolitical impact for Greece

The corridor will reshape trade between southern and eastern Europe by offering a faster, more reliable alternative to existing routes through the Bosphorus. It also diversifies the EU’s transport network and strengthens the single market’s resilience.

For Greece, the project marks a major economic opportunity. The ports of Thessaloniki and Alexandroupoli will serve as key gateways for goods moving to Central and Northern Europe. Improved road and rail connections will turn Greece into a strategic hub for commerce between Europe and Asia.

Strengthening defense and regional security

Tzitzikostas highlighted the project’s defense role. As Europe adapts to new security challenges, the corridor will allow troops, heavy vehicles, and equipment to move across borders faster and more safely.

“This is not just infrastructure; it’s a strategic necessity,” he said, stressing that modern transport systems must serve both civilian and defense needs.

Tourism and regional integration

A direct link between Thessaloniki and Bucharest will boost both freight and tourism. Travelers will enjoy easier access between Southeast and Central Europe, while businesses gain faster connections to new markets.

The project will draw funding from EU and national sources. Once complete, it will stand as a cornerstone of Europe’s sustainable transport network—enhancing trade, tourism, and stability across the continent.