President Iliana Iotova stated that the Vertical Gas Corridor holds strategic importance for Europe’s energy security. According to the president’s press secretariat, the initiative carries significant political weight alongside its economic benefits, particularly given current geopolitical divisions and military conflicts. The discussion took place during the Eighth Summit of the European Political Community in Yerevan, Armenia, attended by leaders from Greece, Moldova, Ukraine, Serbia, and Romania.
The Vertical Gas Corridor is designed to enhance energy security and diversify natural gas supplies across Southeastern, Eastern, and Central Europe. In her remarks, President Iotova noted that Bulgartransgaz was an early initiator of the concept for expanding regional gas transmission infrastructure. She provided updates on Bulgaria’s planned gas infrastructure projects.
These plans include increasing transmission capacity from Greece to Bulgaria by 2026 to boost northbound flows from liquefied natural gas terminals, as well as increasing capacity from Bulgaria to Romania for greater access to Eastern and Central European markets. Furthermore, the interconnection point in Stara Zagora is scheduled for capacity expansion by 2027. The president emphasized that Bulgaria is developing into a key regional hub for natural gas distribution.
She stated that the country’s network is vital for ensuring north-south flows and strengthening connections with Romania and Serbia while supporting diversification through Greek LNG access. Iotova concluded that the corridor represents more than just pipelines; it symbolizes a shared commitment to energy independence and stability through strategic partnership. Separately, the Summit was co-chaired by European Council President Antonio Costa and Armenian Prime Minister
Topics: #gas #corridor #president
What specific role does the Vertical Gas Corridor play in addressing Europe’s current energy security challenges?