Energy ministers from Central and Eastern European countries, along with representatives from the USA, signed a joint declaration to enhance natural gas supply security in the region.
The energy ministers and representatives from 13 countries, including Greece, Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Moldova, Ukraine, Croatia, Lithuania, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the United States, convened to address the security of natural gas supplies in Central and Eastern Europe. They signed a joint declaration aimed at optimizing the use of existing infrastructure and eliminating regulatory barriers that hinder natural gas imports. This cooperative effort underscores their commitment to energy resilience in response to regional challenges.
One key aspect of the declaration is the highlight on Ukrainian underground gas storage facilities, which are recognized as vital assets that should be integrated into regional gas markets and commercial trading hubs. By enhancing collaboration on these storage facilities, the participating nations aim to bolster energy security and facilitate greater market stability in the region, particularly in light of ongoing geopolitical tensions.
The declaration reflects a growing recognition among Central and Eastern European nations of the importance of diversifying energy resources and reducing reliance on external suppliers. By working together, these countries hope to strengthen their energy infrastructure, enhance regional cooperation, and ultimately contribute to a more secure and robust energy future for Central and Eastern Europe.
