Bolojan, on American gas: Romania supports the Vertical Corridor, but does not need LNG imports

Interim Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan explained in an interview with Digi24 why Romania has not signed contracts to purchase American liquefied natural gas, amid the scandal associated with Kimberly Guilfoyle. Bolojan emphasized that Romania’s partnership with the United States is solid and must not be mixed with domestic political disputes.

The head of government said that Romania supports the Vertical Corridor, a project involving the development of gas pipelines between ports in Greece and Central and Eastern Europe, including Hungary, Slovakia and Ukraine. According to Bolojan, these connections would provide an alternative to the current supply routes and help diversify energy sources.

The interim prime minister said that the interconnection problems are mainly located in Bulgaria. Romania has the capacity to receive up to 25 billion cubic meters annually and supports the necessary investments, as well as competitive transport tariffs.

Bolojan explained that Romania covers more than 80% of its gas needs through domestic production, while the exploitation of Black Sea gas, scheduled to begin next year, is expected to double the available quantities. Under these conditions, the country could become a gas exporter rather than a buyer dependent on imports.

The interim prime minister declined to comment on reports about discussions held over dinner and said that gas purchases must be assessed based on need and price.