Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borissov opened in Sofia the Black Sea Energy Economic Forum.

In his address he assured that every step the country takes in view of gas and electricity supplies will be coordinated with the EU. Borissov explained that the construction of the second Bulgarian NPP at Belene should be made under full transparency.

On his part EU Commissioner on Energy Gunter Oettinger pointed to the special importance of Bulgaria due to the geo-strategic position the country has for neighboring countries and Russia in the context of the EU.

“The Premier and government have to make important decisions harmonized with the EU. My aim is for everything you strive after to be coordinated with European policy” Oettinger said. He further commented that this year very important decisions are to be made concerning the NABUCCO gas pipeline.

In the coming weeks we would prepare the technical presentation before EU member-countries – we want everyone to benefit from the project – the countries which already have gas installations as well as Russia and the countries through which the gas pipeline is to pass. I think that the position of Bulgaria and the EU in view of gas supplies coincide, Oettinger further pointed out and voiced hope that in the coming weeks all these issues would be discussed in order to make up a business plan for Bulgaria and the EU to work jointly, the private sector becoming part of the project.