site.btaPM Borissov: South Stream Is History, Balkan Gas Hub Is on Agenda

PM Borissov: South Stream Is History, Balkan Gas Hub Is on Agenda

Sofia, January 13 (BTA) - The South Stream gas pipeline project is history and the Balkan gas hub is on the agenda now, Prime Minister Boyko Borissov said. He was speaking in response to a question by MP Velizar Enchev during Question Time in Parliament Wednesday. This was also his comment to recent publications in Bulgarian and Russian media about possible resumption of the South Stream project.

In BorissovТs words, work with the European Commission is under way to make the Balkan hub a priority, along with the interconnectors with Romania, Greece, Turkey, Serbia and the existing connections with Greece and Macedonia.

Compressor stations are being replaced by reverse-flow pipes and Bulgaria is ready to increase the pipeline capacity, Borissov said, adding that he will come to Parliament to seek support when the time comes.

Being a gas distributor has its advantages and there is considerable interest on the part of foreign companies, the PM said.

He said though that there is a major problem as the project will not receive the green light to pass through the Turkish part of the Black Sea where relations have seen lasting deterioration.

When the project is ready it will be offered to the stakeholders, Borissov said.