Zhelyazkov: No Judicial Interference, Energy Diversification

Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov responded to inquiries regarding a letter from the Renew Europe group to the European Commission, linking the case against the mayor of Varna with the assessment for the allocation of funds under the Recovery and Resilience Plan.

In New York, during the 80th annual session of the UN General Assembly, Zhelyazkov stressed the need for careful consideration of the arguments presented in the letter. The atmosphere in the briefing room was tense, with numerous journalists eager to hear the Prime Minister"s response. However, Zhelyazkov categorically stated: "We will consider the arguments, but the government has never allowed itself to interfere in the work of the independent Bulgarian court".

He emphasized the principle of separation of powers and the autonomy of the judiciary.

Energy Source Diversification

Prior to this statement, the Prime Minister referred to his meeting with the President of Azerbaijan. The diversification of energy sources, especially electricity and natural gas, was identified by Zhelyazkov as a key priority. Talks with President Aliyev focused on green energy supplies from Azerbaijan, with the construction of an underwater cable for supplies through Georgia, Armenia, and Turkey being assessed by the Prime Minister as an increasingly realistic project.

It is evident that the government is seeking strategic partnerships to free itself from dependence on single sources. Zhelyazkov highlighted the potential for increasing gas supplies from Azerbaijan, emphasizing Bulgaria"s role as an important transit corridor, adding: "This is why we pay special attention to the construction of the relevant infrastructure".

Satisfaction with "the excellent relations of our country with Azerbaijan" was also expressed.

End of Russian Gas and New Partnerships

The briefing was also attended by the Minister of Energy, Zhecho Stankov, who drew attention to the supplies of Russian gas. He emphasized the categorical position of the Bulgarian government to develop a regulation that will clearly terminate short-term contracts for the supply of Russian gas by 2026. Long-term contracts are planned to be terminated in 2028.

This move is undoubtedly a step towards reducing energy dependence on Russia, an action that is crucial for Bulgaria"s energy security. Stankov announced, "This gives Bulgaria the potential to be a transit country for natural gas from terminals in the USA. There is an agreement for deliveries in October and November".

The situation seems urgent and actions are being taken decisively. In addition, the Minister announced an agreement with the USA for assistance in the development of sites for small modular reactors, defining the technology as "modern technology that attracts investments in the field of databases and artificial intelligence in Bulgaria".

Stankov added that it is a natural next step to start negotiations with companies for the development of these technologies. This shows Bulgaria"s ambitions for the modernization of its energy sector and diversification of sources.