Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said plans to increase gas transmission capacity from Türkiye to Bulgaria are strategically significant for the two countries and for the wider energy security of Eastern Europe. The cooperation is described as extending beyond bilateral gas trade into a broader corridor covering natural gas, electricity, renewable energy and regional energy security. The partnership is positioned as part of south-east Europe’s efforts to strengthen supply diversification and cross-border integration.
Both governments are working to modernise the BOTAS–Bulgargaz agreement under what Fidan described as a “win-win” principle. The revised framework is expected to cover expanded transmission infrastructure, additional interconnections and deeper long-term cooperation. For Bulgaria, the goal includes stronger access to southern gas routes and greater supply flexibility, while Türkiye would further its role as a regional gas transit and balancing hub connecting multiple markets.
Gas transmission upgrade and modernization of BOTAS–Bulgargaz
Fidan’s remarks link the proposed capacity expansion to broader regional energy security objectives. The modernisation work is intended to address limitations of existing infrastructure relative to rising energy demands in the region. Under the updated approach, cooperation is expected to extend beyond gas supply into related infrastructure and interconnection measures.
The framework being developed is also aimed at supporting long-term coordination between the two sides. Bulgaria’s access to southern routes and flexibility in supply are highlighted alongside Türkiye’s transit and balancing function across multiple markets. The partnership is therefore framed around both physical network upgrades and sustained operational cooperation.
Cross-border electricity interconnectors up to 1,100 MW
Electricity cooperation is advancing alongside gas developments, with plans for new cross-border electricity interconnectors between Türkiye and Bulgaria. Transmission capacity for the proposed links could increase by 700 MW to 1,100 MW. The additional capacity is intended to support cross-border balancing as Bulgaria expands battery storage.
The interconnector plans are also tied to generation and demand developments in the wider region. Romania is described as accelerating renewable generation, while Türkiye’s electricity demand is rising due to industrial growth and electrification. Greater interconnection would be expected to reduce congestion risks while creating commercial opportunities across Balkan electricity markets.
Renewable power transmission talks including Azerbaijan and Georgia
Türkiye, Bulgaria, Azerbaijan and Georgia are discussing the Green Energy Transmission and Trade initiative. The project is described as designed to strengthen renewable electricity transmission between the Caspian region and Europe while expanding regional electricity trading opportunities. The initiative links renewable power flows with cross-border market activity across participating countries.
In parallel, Bulgaria is exploring higher natural gas imports from SOCAR. The same track includes broader investment opportunities associated with Azerbaijan’s growing energy sector. Together, these steps are presented as part of efforts to diversify regional supply sources through both electricity and gas channels.
NATO flank security role through multi-commodity infrastructure
The Türkiye–Bulgaria corridor is also described as developing into a broader strategic security asset beyond commercial flows. Infrastructure capable of transporting natural gas, electricity and renewable power simultaneously is cited as improving supply-chain resilience. It is also described as reinforcing the security of NATO’s south-eastern flank.
The corridor’s multi-commodity capability is further linked to reducing dependence on vulnerable maritime transit routes. Türkiye’s stated ambition to act as an energy bridge between Europe, the Black Sea, the Caspian region and the Middle East is described as being realised through concrete infrastructure investments rather than political rhetoric.
Market integration involving traders, TSOs and storage operators
The commercial potential of the partnership spans multiple segments of the energy value chain. Gas traders, transmission system operators, renewable developers and storage operators are identified as potential beneficiaries of stronger regional interconnection and greater market integration.
The relationship is also framed in terms of geopolitical balance between Türkiye’s geographic position and Bulgaria’s access through EU membership. Türkiye’s infrastructure is described as providing strategic leverage, while Bulgaria’s EU membership offers direct access to the EU internal energy market.
