This week Trakia University – Stara Zagora welcomed representatives of the diplomatic missions of Moldova, Italy and Denmark for a series of meetings focused on hydrogen technologies, clean energy and international scientific cooperation.
At first glance, these may look like formal diplomatic visits. In a broader context, they signal something more important: Stara Zagora is more and more active in the work on hydrogen, green energy and the skills needed for the next stage of the energy transition.
The common focus of the meetings was how Trakia University can expand partnerships, knowledge and infrastructure in hydrogen technologies, renewable energy and specialist training for the emerging clean energy economy.
At the center of the discussions was H2START – the first hydrogen-focused Teaming project under Horizon Europe in Europe. The project is establishing a Centre of Excellence in Hydrogen Technologies at Trakia University, creating new capacity for research, training, international cooperation and stronger links between academia, industry and public institutions.
For Stara Zagora, this matters in very practical terms. H2START means laboratories, opportunities for young researchers, new international connections, specialist training and a stronger knowledge base for clean energy innovation. The diplomatic interest in the project shows that the capacity being built in the region is already relevant beyond Bulgaria.
Prof. DSc Daria Vladikova, Director of H2START, presented the project’s research activities, existing and potential international partnerships with Italy, Denmark, and Moldova, and the vision for developing a hydrogen research and innovation ecosystem in the region.
During the meeting with H.E. Emil Jacota, Ambassador of the Republic of Moldova to Bulgaria, the discussion focused on opportunities for Moldova to take part in future scientific and educational initiatives related to hydrogen technologies, world-class laboratory infrastructure and the development of young researchers. The role of the Bulgarian community in Moldova was highlighted as a natural bridge for cultural, educational and scientific cooperation between the two countries.
The meeting with H.E. Marcello Apicella, Ambassador of Italy to Bulgaria, focused on cooperation in clean energy and hydrogen technologies. Representatives of Confindustria Bulgaria also took part, together with H2START’s Italian partners – Politecnico di Torino and the Institute for Advanced Energy Technologies “Nicola Giordano”. The discussion showed how existing links between academic expertise, research infrastructure and business networks can develop further in the next stages of the project.
During the visit of H.E. Flemming Stender, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Denmark to Bulgaria, the conversation turned to opportunities for joint initiatives between Trakia University and Danish universities and research centers. The topics included hydrogen technologies, specialist training, knowledge exchange and good practices, as well as Denmark’s experience in renewable energy, sustainable energy systems, wind power, waste-to-energy solutions and modern heating systems.