Vertical Gas Corridor Is Extremely Important, Enjoys Broad International Support, Says Energy Minister

Momchil Rusev

Energy Minister Zhecho Stankov (left) and PM Rosen Zhelyazkov during an official inspection of Vertical Gas Corridor construction progress in the area of the village of Mikrevo in Strumyani Municipality, Southwestern Bulgaria, May 29, 2025 (BTA Photo/Krasimir Nikolov)

Sofia,

29.05.2025 14:28

(BTA)

The Vertical Gas Corridor, is extremely important and is supported by the governments of Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova, Ukraine, Hungary and Slovakia, Energy Minister Zhecho Stankov said during an official inspection of its construction progress in the area of the village of Mikrevo in Strumyani Municipality (Southwestern Bulgaria).

Stankov described the project as a manifestation of European solidarity and partnership. "This is an opportunity for technology transfer and the creation of corporate partnerships in the construction of this type of networks," he stressed.

The Energy Minister pointed out that the project is 69 km long, and on the 30th day 37 km have already been completed, 20 km of pipes have been laid, of which 15 km have been welded and three of them are even buried.

"We have two more sections that need to be completed," said Stankov. He specified that the current section will increase by 50% the capacity for natural gas transmission from Greece to Bulgaria. After the construction of the Rupcha-Vetrino route, the additional capacity at the border with Romania will increase by 100%. In his words, this will allow Bulgaria not only to guarantee its own energy security, but also to assist neighbouring countries. This will bring additional revenues for Bulgartransgaz companies, which will then be transferred to the State budget.

The Minister of Energy is committed to complete all projects on time.

The event was also attended by Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov, Bulgartransgaz CEO Vladimir Malinov and Glavbolgarstroy Board Chair Kalin Peshov.

The Vertical Gas Corridor is a large-scale infrastructure project aimed at enhancing energy security and supply continuity, while providing access to diversified natural gas sources for Bulgaria and the South-East European region.

/KT/