Energy, Estonia, EU – Baltic States

Ergma met with President of Bulgaria Georgi Parvanov, Parliament Speaker Georgi Pirinski and deputy Prime Minister Emel Etem on Thursday and made a welcoming address to the Parliament of Bulgaria.

In her address in front of the National Assembly of Bulgaria, the Estonian Parliament Speaker pointed out Bulgaria's active approach in the issues that concern the future of the European Union, noting that Bulgarian Parliament was among the first ones to ratify the Lisbon Treaty. "The progress achieved by Bulgaria merit recognition. It only became possible due to strong willpower, belief and conviction that your nation and your Government has firmly adhered to, overcoming scepticism and doubts," she said.

Ergma also discussed co-operation in the field of energy, noting that recent events have demonstrated that energy security is one of the most important issues that require clarity and firm decisions. "In a situation where some countries use energy supplies as a political weapon, it is natural to weigh all options and alternatives," she stated, adding that improving diversity of supply channels and energy dependence requires extensive reforms and development of infrastructure.

"Estonia recognises the preparedness and interest displayed by Bulgaria in offering a transit corridor for establishing the Nabucco pipeline," said the Estonian Speaker.