site.btaPipelay Vessel for South Stream Gas Pipeline to Stop at Port of Bourgas

Sofia, August 30 (BTA) - The Castoro Sei (Italian for Beaver Six) pipelay vessel which will be used in the construction of the South Stream gas pipeline is expected to be anchored at the Port of Bourgas on August 31, South Stream Transport B.V. said.

The international joint venture of Gazprom, ENI S.p.A., EDF and Wintershall Holding GmbH said the vessel would be used to prepare construction, including the welding of pipes for the Russian shallow water section of the pipeline.

According to agreements signed earlier this year, the ports of Varna and Bourgas have a business opportunity to provide warehouses for the pipes which will be used at all stages of the project. The barge will stay in Bourgas until the end of October.

The company said it abides by EU and national law and will launch construction only after getting the necessary permits.

On August 11, Economy Minister Vassil Shtonov issued an order for calling off further actions on the South Stream project until the end of the European Commission's infringement proceedings. The Minister said that his order means no actual steps on the construction of the gas pipeline in Bulgaria may be undertaken before this country eradicates all discrepancies with Community law.