Sofia, Bulgaria — October 17, 2025 – The International Road Federation (IRF Global), in collaboration with the Institute of Transportation Engineering, successfully hosted the 3rd IRF Annual Europe & Central Asia Regional Congress and the XVIIIth Bulgarian National Transport Infrastructure Conference on 14-16 October 2025 in Sofia, Bulgaria.

Held under the theme “Reimagining Regional Corridors: Safe, Resilient, Connected & Future-Ready,” the Congress brought together more than 150 speakers and delegates from over 30 countries to discuss the future of regional mobility. The congress highlighted innovative policies, emerging technologies, and sustainable strategies driving the evolution of road and transport infrastructure across Europe and Central Asia.

EUROPE AND THE REGION’S LEADING STAKEHOLDERS UNITED IN SOFIA

The event served as a premier gathering point for Europe’s and the region’s foremost public and private sector leaders, uniting transport ministries, international financial institutions, academic experts, and industry innovators under one roof.

Participants engaged in vibrant discussions on regional connectivity, resilience, digitalization, and safety, reaffirming the importance of cross-border cooperation and knowledge sharing to build future-ready transport networks.

Through executive meetings, roundtables and technical sessions, representatives of regional governments and multilateral organizations exchanged views on investment priorities, policy frameworks, and partnership models to accelerate progress toward safer and more sustainable mobility systems.

A TECHNICAL AND POLICY-ORIENTED PLATFORM

The 2025 edition of the Congress featured a robust scientific and policy-oriented program covering six major themes:

  • Enhancing Road Safety & Vision Zero Strategies – Policy innovations, technology integration, and enforcement mechanisms for zero-fatality goals.
  • Resilient & Connected Corridors – Strengthening transport links to drive trade, tourism, and regional growth.
  • Digitalization & Smart Mobility – Leveraging data, AI, and smart infrastructure for optimized traffic management.
  • Next Generation Infrastructure & Materials – Sustainable materials, predictive maintenance, and climate-resilient design.
  • Road User Charging & Travel Demand Management – Innovative financing and equitable road use strategies.
  • Low Volume Road Condition Management – Effective preservation methods for rural and secondary roads.

Experts from governments, academia, and industry shared case studies, research findings, and best practices aimed at enhancing infrastructure performance, safety, and sustainability.

TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION TAKE CENTER STAGE

Running alongside the conference, a technical exhibition featured state-of-the-art technologies and equipment transforming the mobility landscape. Exhibitors showcased smart mobility platforms, sustainable construction materials, intelligent safety systems, and next-generation maintenance tools, offering attendees a first-hand look at the innovations shaping tomorrow’s roads.

A NETWORKING HUB FOR THE TRANSPORT COMMUNITY

The Congress featured extensive networking opportunities, including gala receptions, side meetings, and professional exchanges, offering delegates a platform to form partnerships, identify investment opportunities, and build long-term collaborations.

Participants left with renewed perspectives on the shared vision for sustainable and future-ready transport corridors that enhance economic growth, reduce emissions, and improve quality of life across the region.

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