The Energy Minister Zhecho Stankov emphasized key priorities for secure and affordable supplies in Europe.

On June 16, 2025, Minister of Energy Zhecho Stankov participated in the regular meeting of the EU Council on Transport, Telecommunications and Energy in Luxembourg. During the meeting, the energy ministers discussed key issues related to energy security, diversification of supplies, and the development of the single energy market in Europe.

In front of his colleagues, Stankov emphasized the importance of achieving a balance between the EU's strategic goals for decarbonization and the need for secure and predictable supplies at competitive prices. The Minister stated that "Energy security and price affordability must remain guiding principles - for people, for industry, for economic resilience." In this context, he confirmed Bulgaria's position that support for energy infrastructure and market participants is necessary, taking into account national specificities and coordination between member states.

Stankov highlighted specific steps taken by Bulgaria, such as the successful diversification of nuclear fuel sources for the Kozloduy NPP. He also stressed the need for investments in key gas projects that could help ensure alternative and competitive gas supplies for Europe.

The Minister of Energy emphasized Bulgaria's priorities related to ensuring energy security, following the principle of technological neutrality to ensure a fair transition, and integrating renewable sources in a sustainable and balanced manner. He stated that "The energy transition should not create new inequalities" and highlighted the importance of investments in network infrastructure, including smart grids, storage facilities, and flexibility of the electricity system.

During the Council, emphasis was also placed on the enhanced development of interconnections and support for strategic projects of common interest, including under the CESEC initiative, which play a crucial role in overcoming energy vulnerability in the region. In this context, Bulgaria's readiness to actively participate in the EU's efforts to complete the Energy Union was expressed.

During his working visit to Luxembourg, Minister Stankov held meetings with representatives of the European Investment Bank, the European Commission's Directorate-General for Energy, and the Minister of Economy of Slovakia, where they discussed cooperation in the field of nuclear energy and the reduction of administrative burden for such investments.