President Iliana Iotova stated that the Vertical Gas Corridor holds significant strategic importance for Europe’s energy security. According to the president’s press secretariat, the initiative’s importance extends beyond mere economic benefits, carrying substantial political weight amid current geopolitical divisions and military conflicts. The discussion regarding the role of the Vertical Gas Corridor took place alongside the Eighth Summit of the European Political Community in Yerevan, Armenia, with participation from heads of state and government from Greece, Moldova, Ukraine, Serbia, and Romania.
This strategic initiative is designed to enhance energy security and diversify natural gas supplies across Southeastern, Eastern, and Central Europe. During her address, President Iotova highlighted that Bulgartransgaz was among the initial proponents of sustainable gas transmission infrastructure expansion in the region. She outlined Bulgaria’s infrastructure plans, including planned increases in transmission capacity from Greece to Bulgaria by 2026 to facilitate greater northbound flows from liquefied natural gas terminals.
Furthermore, capacity upgrades from Bulgaria to Romania are scheduled for 2026 to secure energy supplies for Eastern and Central Europe. The interconnection point in Stara Zagora is slated for increased capacity by 2027. The president asserted that Bulgaria is establishing itself as a key regional hub for natural gas distribution.
She noted the country’s role in ensuring north–south gas flows and supporting diversification through connections with Greece, Romania, and Serbia. Iotova concluded that the Vertical Gas Corridor represents more than just pipelines; it symbolizes a shared commitment to energy independence and regional stability. Separately, the President and her Armenian counterpart discussed strengthening bilateral cooperation, following the signing of a Joint Declaration on Strategic Partnership between Bulgaria and Armenia.
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