Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov announced his government will request another sanctions exemption for the Lukoil refinery in Bulgaria next April, following a six-month review of the situation. He stated that the government's focus remains on maintaining legal order and minimizing potential arbitration risks while ensuring the fuel market's stability.
The Prime Minister defended the appointment of Rumen Spetsov as special commercial manager, citing his regulatory experience and expressing confidence that the refinery would operate smoothly under his management. He credited quiet, professional diplomacy with securing the current exemption from the United States by convincing officials that Bulgaria would comply with all financial sanctions.
During an inspection of the Vertical Gas Corridor gas pipeline construction, Zhelyazkov emphasized that the project enhances regional energy security by enabling south-north gas transport. He described the infrastructure as vital for Bulgaria's role as a key energy transporter and for accessing diversified gas supplies, including liquefied natural gas from Greek terminals. Energy Minister Zhecho Stankov added that the project strengthens international partnerships and increases state revenues through transit fees.
The Prime Minister defended the appointment of Rumen Spetsov as special commercial manager, citing his regulatory experience and expressing confidence that the refinery would operate smoothly under his management. He credited quiet, professional diplomacy with securing the current exemption from the United States by convincing officials that Bulgaria would comply with all financial sanctions.
During an inspection of the Vertical Gas Corridor gas pipeline construction, Zhelyazkov emphasized that the project enhances regional energy security by enabling south-north gas transport. He described the infrastructure as vital for Bulgaria's role as a key energy transporter and for accessing diversified gas supplies, including liquefied natural gas from Greek terminals. Energy Minister Zhecho Stankov added that the project strengthens international partnerships and increases state revenues through transit fees.
