Internet exchange operator DE-CIX has taken a majority stake in Bulgarian IX operator BIX.BG.

Founded in 2009, BIX.BG is Bulgaria’s largest carrier-neutral IX, boasting more than 130 connected networks. Distributed across 10 points of presence in the Sofia metropolitan area, the operator can handle more than 11 terabits of connected customer capacity, with its exchange seeing traffic peak in excess of 1.3 Tb/s.

A strategic agreement will see BIX.BG continue its existing services, while gaining access to DE-CIX’s suite of services.

“By becoming part of the DE-CIX ecosystem, we will expand the opportunities available to networks connected to BIX.BG and support the evolving connectivity needs of the Bulgarian market,” BIX.BG CEO Dimo Nikolov explained. “Together, we will further strengthen Sofia’s role as a regional connectivity hub while continuing to provide the reliable, neutral interconnection services our members expect.”

The move sees DE-CIX strengthening its presence in the Balkans, adding to its existing sites in Istanbul and Athens.

“Partnerships such as this are always an exciting step for DE-CIX – supporting the integration of BIX.BG into the DE-CIX ecosystem, broadening the horizons for Bulgarian network operators, and solidifying DE-CIX’s footprint in another European country,” DE-CIX CEO Ivo Ivanov added. “This business arrangement will enable both IX operators to play to their individual strengths, combining excellence in local peering in Sofia with the global presence of a world leader.”

DE-CIX’s Balkan boost comes as the IX operator continues to steam ahead with expansions across the world.

Among its recent strides are steps into Brazil via São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. But the firm is also looking beyond Earth-bound borders with a view to bringing its interconnect offerings into low-Earth orbit (LEO) via its Space-IX project.