President Iliana Iotova stated that the Vertical Gas Corridor holds significant strategic importance for Europe’s energy security. Speaking at the Eighth Summit of the European Political Community in Yerevan, the President emphasized that the corridor’s value extends beyond economic benefits, holding particular political weight amid current geopolitical divisions and conflicts. 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 summit, which included heads of state from several nations, Iotova highlighted Bulgaria’s role in advancing the project. She noted that Bulgartransgaz was among the initiators for expanding regional gas transmission infrastructure. Iotova provided updates on Bulgaria’s planned gas infrastructure upgrades.
She outlined plans to increase transmission capacity from Greece to Bulgaria by 2026, facilitating greater northbound flows from Greek liquefied natural gas terminals. Additionally, capacity between Bulgaria and Romania is slated for enhancement to secure supply routes to Eastern and Central Europe, alongside planned increases at the Stara Zagora interconnection point by 2027. The President stated that Bulgaria is establishing itself as a vital regional hub for natural gas distribution, possessing a developed network connecting neighboring countries.
She asserted that the corridor is “not merely a system of pipelines, but a symbol of our shared commitment to energy independence, security and development.” The President concluded by emphasizing that such infrastructure development underscores the necessity of strategic partnership and investment for a stable energy future across the region.
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