The discussion focused on cooperation as a key factor for energy security and infrastructure development.

Energy security has become a central element of global stability in the context of increased geopolitical uncertainty and challenges to supply chains. This topic was at the forefront of discussions during the Delphi Economic Forum, where emphasis was placed on the role of infrastructure development and international cooperation.

During the discussion, Joshua Volz, Special Envoy for Global Energy Integration at the U.S. Department of Energy, emphasized that a key factor for energy security is diversification—not only of energy sources, but also of transport routes and strategic partnerships that ensure long-term access to energy markets. He noted that diversification is a fundamental pillar of energy security, and that stable partnerships are built on shared priorities and long-term predictability.

In this context, the importance of developing energy corridors and regional cooperation, including in the Balkans, was highlighted. It was emphasized that successful energy projects require not only infrastructure, but also effective coordination among stakeholders.

Jeff Wilson, Chief Strategy Officer and Senior Advisor on Energy Dominance at the Export-Import Bank of the United States, stressed the need to transform global supply chains toward more resilient models with higher reserves. The focus was placed on building strategic reserves of critical raw materials and developing long-term international partnerships, including through financial instruments for infrastructure projects.

The discussion also emphasized the need for greater predictability in the implementation of long-term energy and infrastructure projects, as well as the role of the private sector in this process.

Kalin Peshov, Chairman of the Management Board of Glavbolgarstroy, highlighted that the development of energy infrastructure requires effective interaction between the public and private sectors. According to him, businesses contribute flexibility and operational efficiency, enabling the acceleration of strategic projects through the optimization of procedures, logistics, and technological solutions. As an example, the “Vertical Gas Corridor” project was cited, where the EPC model significantly shortens implementation timelines. It was emphasized that more active private sector participation can accelerate the energy transition and contribute to higher energy security.

The discussions continued with an assessment of the current environment, in which energy shocks are no longer seen as isolated events, but as frequently occurring risks. According to the participants, disruptions along key energy routes can lead to significant fluctuations in supply and prices of energy resources, putting strong pressure on both developed and developing economies.

At the same time, it was highlighted that the main strategic challenge is not limited to resource extraction, but lies in the concentration of processing capacity in a limited number of countries, creating global bottlenecks in supply chains. “Energy security is a shared issue,” was one of the key conclusions.

Charles Hendry, former UK Energy Minister, emphasized the need to reduce dependencies through diversification of supply sources and routes, as well as through the protection of critical infrastructure.

The discussion showed that the global energy system is changing dynamically, with energy increasingly establishing itself as a key factor for economic stability and national security, with a direct impact on policies and development.

Lead photo: (from left to right) Olga Khakova – moderator, Deputy Director for European Energy Security, Global Energy Center (Atlantic Council); Joshua Volz, U.S. Special Envoy for Global Energy Integration; Jeff Wilson, Chief Strategy Officer, Export-Import Bank of the United States; Prof. Gordon Flake – Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Perth USAsia Centre, University of Western Australia; Charles Hendry, Distinguished Fellow, Global Energy Center, Atlantic Council; Kalin Peshov, Chairman of the Management Board, Glavbolgarstroy