Kristian Vigenin converses with Ambassador Carlos Pascual
26 September 2013 News
Minister of Foreign Affairs Kristian Vigenin who is currently in New York due to his participation in the 68th session of the UN GA, met with Ambassador Carlos Pascual, Special Envoy and Coordinator for International Energy Affairsat the US State Department. During the talks, Minister Vigenin presented the government’s policy on international energy projects with Bulgarian participation. He expressed regret over the cancellation of "Nabucco" project, stating the interest of our country to the project "South Stream”.
Minister Vigenin outlined the situation in the country in terms of electricity production. According to him, the "Belene" NPP project has no political dimensions and its implementation depends solely on its economic viability. It was pointed out that Bulgaria seriously explores the issue of the construction of a seventh reactor NPP "Kozloduy". It is important for the country to ensure its energy independence and thus we work towards gas supply diversification, Vigenin said.
Ambassador Pascual outlined the US view on the development of the international gas market. The dynamics of this market, especially in recent years, are remarkable thanks to the increased production of shale gas. It is expected that the sources of gas to Europe will diversify and the largest Russian manufacturers will focus on mastering the Asian market, Ambassador Pascual said. He conveyed satisfaction with the work of the US energy companies in Bulgaria and expressed hope that they will continue to operate in accordance with the signed contracts with Bulgaria.