Cooperation with Bulgaria strengthens our energy resilience: Denys Shmyhal

First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal took part in the Ukrainian-Bulgarian intergovernmental consultations and held a bilateral meeting with Bulgarian Minister of Energy Traicho Traikov.

The parties discussed deepening cooperation in the energy sector.

Denys Shmyhal thanked Bulgaria for preparing a humanitarian aid package that includes energy equipment for the repair of Ukrainian power facilities. This support is critical for preparing for the upcoming heating season.

The participants of the meetings acknowledged progress in the development of the Vertical Gas Corridor. Its extension through Bulgarian territory provides Ukraine with access to additional gas volumes from the Mediterranean and creates new opportunities for cooperation with European partners, including the use of our underground gas storage facilities.

The Ukrainian side expressed gratitude to Bulgaria for the support in restoring gas supplies via the Trans-Balkan route in reverse mode.

“These are practical steps that directly strengthen our energy resilience,” stressed the Minister of Energy of Ukraine.

Prospective areas of cooperation include engagement with Naftogaz on oil refining at a Bulgarian refinery and the exchange of expertise in the nuclear energy sector.

Denys Shmyhal reminded Ukraine had successful cooperation with Westinghouse on phasing out russian nuclear fuel and stood ready to share this experience with partners.

“We thank Bulgaria for its support and constructive partnership, and highly value our joint efforts and our shared commitment to moving forward together,” summed up the First Deputy Prime Minister/Minister of Energy of Ukraine.