Bulgaria has taken the lead in the construction of the strategic Vertical Gas Corridor, a project that aims to ensure energy security and supply diversification throughout the region. This ambitious initiative, supported by multiple countries, is already in the process of real implementation, with our country being the first to take concrete action on its execution.
This was revealed during a parliamentary control session, where Minister of Energy Zhecho Stankov informed the relevant commission about the project's progress. According to him, a large part of the first section of the gas pipeline has already been laid, which represents a significant step forward.
The Vertical Gas Corridor is a key infrastructure project that connects the natural gas markets in Southeast and Central Europe. It is the result of joint efforts and strategic partnership between the countries of the region, and in addition to Bulgaria, the initiative is supported by Greece, Romania, Hungary, Slovakia, Ukraine, and Moldova. The goal is to create an alternative gas transmission route that will reduce dependence on a single supplier and ensure flexibility of energy flows.
Minister Stankov expressed confidence that work on the next phase of the project will begin very soon. He indicated that there is readiness for the implementation of the Rupcha - Vetrino section to start in September. This will further accelerate the construction of the corridor and bring the region closer to achieving its strategic goals.
The project began with the construction of the section from the Kulata border crossing point to the connection point with the existing gas pipeline at Kresna. This initial phase, although only a part of the overall plan, is crucial for the future functioning of the corridor. Bulgaria's actions are seen as a strong signal of the country's commitment to European energy policy and to strengthening regional cooperation. The project has the potential to turn Bulgaria into an important gas hub that will guarantee stability and security of supplies for neighboring countries.