Romanian EconMin: Romania, Bulgaria Not Competing for South Stream

Construction is going on in Germany for the other big Russian natural gas pipeline Nord Stream, as shown in this photo from early July. (EPA/BGNES)

Romania is not in vying with Bulgaria to secure a place in the Russian gas pipeline project South Stream, declared Romanian Minister of Economy Adriean Videanu Thursday in an interview for Romanian daily Adev?rul.

“I would like to say that Romania is not in competition with Bulgaria. To the contrary, Romania considers partnership with Bulgaria on all energy projects to be very useful,” commented Videanu regarding the recently signed agreement on South Stream between Bulgaria and Russia.

Videanu further stated he is happy at the signing of the Bulgarian-Russian agreement, stressing the need for cooperation on all matters involving the south energy corridor.

He played down reports in international media that previously Romania had replaced Bulgaria, and now Bulgaria is replacing Romania back in South Stream, saying nothing has be finalized yet.

The Romanian energy minister shared information he has from Alexander Miller, CEO of the Russian energy giant Gazprom, that a final “feasibility study” which would determine the route of the South Stream pipe is to be completed by the end of the year.

Videanu left open the option that South Stream will pass through Romanian territory, saying it is unclear whether that will be just a branch or the main pipeline.

He also stressed that even lacking a feasibility and economic evaluation of the project, the agreements signed have a strong political dimension.

Videanu said he had not had contacts with Gazprom since the signing of the agreement with Bulgaria.

The Romanian economy minister also revealed that talks with Gazprom for establishing a joint company with Romanian state company Romgaz to invest in Romania's natural gas system and develop storage facilities will probably be finalized by a contract coming October.

In addition, Videanu announced that the Arad-Szeged pipe, linking the Romanian gas system to Hungary's and the broader EU gas networks will be officially opened in September.

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