The President of Bulgaria, Iliana Iotova, stated that the Vertical Gas Corridor holds strategic importance for Europe’s energy security. According to her press secretariat, the corridor’s significance extends beyond economic benefits, holding political weight amid current geopolitical divisions and military conflicts. These remarks were made during the Eighth Summit of the European Political Community in Yerevan, Armenia, attended by heads of state and government from Greece, Moldova, Ukraine, Serbia, and Romania.
The Vertical Gas Corridor is described as a key initiative designed to enhance energy security and diversify natural gas supplies across Southeastern, Eastern, and Central Europe. During the meeting, President Iotova noted that Bulgartransgaz was an early proponent of expanding the region’s gas transmission infrastructure and was the first operator to invest in the corridor’s construction. Iotova briefed attendees on Bulgaria’s gas infrastructure plans.
She detailed upcoming capacity increases, including plans for 2026 to boost transmission from Greece to Bulgaria, facilitating greater northbound flows from Greek LNG terminals, and increasing capacity between Bulgaria and Romania for improved access to Eastern and Central Europe. Furthermore, the interconnection point in Stara Zagora is scheduled for capacity enhancement by 2027. The President emphasized Bulgaria’s role, stating, “Bulgaria is establishing itself as an important regional hub for natural gas distribution, with a well-developed transmission network with neighbouring countries.
Our country plays a key role in ensuring north–south flows, supports diversification through access to LNG terminals in Greece, and strengthens connections with Romania and Serbia.”
President Iotova concluded that the Vertical Gas Corridor symbolizes a shared commitment to energy independence, security, and development, underscoring the necessity of strategic partnership and infrastructure investment for a stable regional energy future.
Topics: #gas #corridor #president
