The event took place on 21–22 April 2026 at the Grand Hotel Sofia, bringing together National Coordinators, representatives from the European Commission (DG REGIO), the Interreg Danube Region Programme, and the Danube Youth Council. Over two days, participants engaged in strategic discussions focused on the future of cooperation across the Danube Region.

The meeting opened with welcoming remarks from Deputy Minister Dora Yankova of Bulgaria’s Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works, along with Vyara Mincheva, Bulgaria’s National Coordinator. The Bulgarian Presidency then presented updates on the progress achieved in advancing its priorities and outlined preparations for the upcoming 15th EUSDR Annual Forum.

During the session on financial perspectives, Johan Magnusson from DG REGIO shared the latest developments regarding the EU’s Multiannual Financial Framework for 2028–2034, including relevant initiatives at the European Commission level. Simona Ene from the Interreg Danube Region Programme provided an overview of how the current programme period is being implemented.

Further discussions addressed the alignment of EUSDR priorities with the next EU budget cycle for 2028–2034, as well as ways to enhance support for EU enlargement through the strategy. Youth participation was also highlighted, with representatives of the Danube Youth Council, Ana Marija Radošević and Ioana Constantinescu, presenting ongoing and planned activities aimed at engaging young people in the region.