site.btaInspection of Vertical Gas Corridor Construction Takes Place in Southwest Bulgaria

An official inspection of the Vertical Gas Corridor took place Thursday in the area of the village of Mikrevo in Strumyani Municipality (Southwestern Bulgaria). It was attended by representatives of the Bulgarian Government, Bulgartransgaz, Glavbolgarstroy (a contractor in the project), as well as the Greek Energy Minister and the Hungarian Foreign Affairs and Trade Minister.

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.

Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov said that the corridor carries political symbolism, as it shows that countries that are partners and allies create opportunities to ensure gas transmission diversification. He added that the project gives the countries of Central and Southeastern Europe numerous opportunities that go beyond the traditional understanding of sovereignty, independence and competitiveness.

Bulgarian Energy Minister Zhecho 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 and underlined his commitment to complete the construction on time.

Greece's Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou stressed that together the two countries can achieve much more. He recalled that although Bulgaria and Greece are neighbours and are historically linked, until recently they were not interconnected in terms of energy. He hoped that this would be the beginning of stronger cooperation between them.

Hungary's Foreign Affairs and Trade Minister Peter Szijjarto stressed that Hungary understands and appreciates Bulgaria's efforts as a reliable partner in gas transmission. He pointed out that energy supplies to Central Europe are vital for the whole continent, which is why the European Commission is allocating additional funds for their implementation.

Bulgartransgaz CEO Vladimir Malinov said that while it is challenging to have gas transmission operators from seven countries unite around a common concept, the challenges can be overcome, when it comes to ensuring diversification of routes and a good market, as well as natural gas prices that benefit Bulgarian businesses. The head of Bulgaria's natural gas transmission and storage system operator said that completing the project will provide energy security for the entire region. 

Glavbolgarstroy Board Chair Kalin Peshov outlined several specific technical challenges of the construction, including five crossings under the Struma River, twelve under railway lines, and three under highways, among others. Peshov added that the project would be completed on time, within budget, and to high quality standards, in full compliance with the contract.