BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. In a move aimed at bolstering energy security in Southeastern Europe, Bulgaria and Türkiye are set to deepen their energy cooperation, TurkicWorld reports via Bulgaria’s Energy Ministry.
This was the focal point of a recent meeting between Bulgaria's Energy Minister Vladimir Malinov, and the Turkish Ambassador to Bulgaria Mehmet Sait Uyanık.
"Türkiye is one of Bulgaria's key energy partners. Ensuring energy security for the region and diversifying sources are common priorities, on which we will continue working together," stated Minister Malinov during his discussion with Ambassador Uyanık. He highlighted the growing importance of energy supplies via Türkiye's liquefied gas terminals following the cessation of Russian natural gas transportation through Ukraine.
The meeting underscored ongoing negotiations between Bulgargaz and BOTAŞ, following the Bulgarian National Assembly's directive on April 19, 2024, which instructs the Energy Minister to renegotiate the existing agreement between Bulgargaz EAD and BOTAŞ. Ambassador Uyanık expressed his commitment to fostering a constructive dialogue to achieve the best outcomes for both nations.
The discussions also explored enhancing cooperation in the development of electricity systems and the potential for transporting green energy to the European market. Minister Malinov shared insights into Bulgaria's nuclear sector development, offering Bulgarian expertise to Turkish counterparts given Bulgaria's extensive experience in nuclear power plant operations.
Both Minister Malinov and Ambassador Uyanık expressed their readiness to formalize their cooperation through a Memorandum of Understanding, expected to be signed in the coming months. This memorandum will solidify the collaborative efforts between Bulgaria and Türkiye in the energy sector, paving the way for strengthened regional energy security and diversification.
