The strategic project implemented by the construction holding group received high praise for its excellent organization and rapid progress in construction activities from the Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Péter Siarto, and the Greek Minister of Environment and Energy, Stavros Papastavrou.

The construction of the Vertical Gas Corridor (VGC) is advancing on schedule, with all work along the route being carried out efficiently and on time. This was confirmed during the official inspection of the “Kulata-Kresna” loop construction site near the village of Mikrevo on May 29, 2025.

The inspection was attended by Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov, Bulgarian Minister of Energy Zhecho Stankov, Greek Minister of Energy Stavros Papastavrou, and Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs Péter Siarto who reaffirmed their strong support for the project. The initiative is being realized with the political backing and commitment of seven countries—Bulgaria, Greece, Romania, Moldova, Ukraine, Hungary, and Slovakia—and is considered a key infrastructure element for securing diversified and affordable natural gas supplies to Central and Southeastern Europe.

Glavbolgarstroy is responsible for all phases of the project—from route selection, design, and administrative procedures to construction and commissioning.

The first phase of the VGC comprises two key projects: increasing transmission capacity from Greece to Bulgaria and from Bulgaria to Romania. At the Kulata–Sidirokastro interconnection point, technical capacity will be increased by 35 GWh/day, reaching a total of 102 GWh/day. The corridor spans 48 km, of which 37 km have already been cleared, 20 km of pipes delivered, 15 km welded, and 3 km installed underground. This initial phase will boost the transmission capacity from Greece to Bulgaria by 50%, reaching 3.6 billion cubic meters per year, and will allow for reverse flow capabilities. The second phase is expected to double the capacity toward Romania, reaching up to 10 billion cubic meters annually.

Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov described the project as a symbol of European solidarity, stating that it "guarantees energy independence and security for decades to come." He emphasized that this is long-term infrastructure that transcends traditional notions of national sovereignty and serves as a powerful tool for competitiveness and cooperation.

“This project represents an opportunity for technology transfer and the development of corporate partnerships in building such types of networks,” noted Energy Minister Stankov.

“The entire project will be completed on schedule, in accordance with the contract, with high quality and within the planned budget,” said Eng. Kalin Peshov, Chairman of the Board of Glavbolgarstroy Holding. He added, “The construction is highly challenging—with five crossings under the Struma and Strumeshnitsa rivers, twelve crossings under railways and highways, and nearly 450 people working on site.”

The Vertical Gas Corridor is a joint initiative of Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, Ukraine, Moldova, and Slovakia. Its objective is to enhance energy security and ensure diversification of supply sources and transmission routes for natural gas.