The Executive Director of Bulgartransgaz EAD, Vladimir Malinov held a meeting with the US Special Envoy for Global Energy Integration Joshua Volz and with the Attaché of the US Department of Energy for Central and Eastern Europe Ms. Arlene Fetizanan. The conversation was mainly focused on enhancement of cooperation between Bulgartransgaz and the United States in the energy sector, as well as on successful development of the Vertical Gas Corridor as critical infrastructure to increase energy security in the region. "For 2025, liquefied gas reached about 43% of the total natural gas imports in the European Union, with the US occupying approximately 40% of this market share, strengthening its role as a key and reliable partner," Vladimir Malinov emphasized during the meeting.
The strategic project was also the focus of discussions during the East Macedonia and Thrace Forum IV in Alexandroupolis, Greece. The event brought together representatives of political, business, academic and public circles to conduct an in-depth dialogue on key and current topics. “Our region is transforming from a peripheral transit zone into the core of Europe’s energy future. Today, we are at the centre of energy flows for the region, thanks to our consistency, foresight and our common ambition to achieve energy security, independence and market integration,” Malinov said.
Bulgartransgaz plays a leading role in the region also through its participation as a shareholder in the liquefied natural gas terminal in Alexandroupolis and the development of the Vertical Gas Corridor recognised as a strategic “energy highway”. “Currently, on Bulgarian territory the projects are in the final phase of implementation and will be run into operation this year,” Malinov said. He also noted that after the National Assembly's decision to adopt the so-called extended budget, the possibility to use profitable financing for implementation of the project in Bulgaria remains by issuing state guarantees under loan agreements in the amount of nearly 91.9 million euros. "Institutional support for the project guarantees increased interest from financing institutions and creates conditions for attracting the necessary capital under optimal conditions," he added. According to him, the participation of more American companies with long-term capacity booking along the Vertical Corridor will make it even more attractive to the market. Malinov also emphasized that the countries in the region should join their efforts by submitting joint nominations for natural gas supplies in order to optimize the parameters in the long term.
