Sofia, 14.03.2026 09:31 (BTA) – Caretaker Energy Minister Traicho Traikov met with the US Chargé d’Affaires in Bulgaria, H. Martin McDowell, to discuss current issues in bilateral energy cooperation and the impact of global geopolitical tensions on energy markets, the Ministry of Energy said here on Saturday.

A key focus of the talks was the extension of the derogation for four Bulgarian subsidiaries of Lukoil by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) at the US Department of the Treasury. Traikov and McDowell discussed ways to address the issue in order to facilitate the process, which is important for the normal functioning and stability of the market.

The two also discussed cooperation with the United States on the strategic project to build Units 7 and 8 at Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant using the AP1000 technology of Westinghouse Electric Company. The project was highlighted as a key element in efforts to ensure the sustainable development of Bulgaria’s energy sector, including by attracting long-term investment.

Progress on the construction of the Vertical Gas Corridor on Bulgarian territory was also among the main topics. Given the infrastructure’s importance for diversifying supplies and strengthening regional energy security, the potential for Bulgaria to establish itself as a leading route for the transit of liquefied natural gas, including supplies from the United States, was emphasized.

Traikov and McDowell underscored the importance of the partnership between the two countries and confirmed their readiness to continue active and productive cooperation.