Greece hosts ministers as Vertical Gas Corridor cooperation moves to next phase

Regional energy cooperation in south-east Europe is taking a more implementation-focused turn, after ministers from Greece, Serbia, North Macedonia and Bulgaria met in Athens to advance cross-border connectivity aimed at strengthening supply security. The discussions underscored how joint infrastructure planning is increasingly being used to improve long-term stability and deepen economic integration across the region.

Vertical Gas Corridor expansion agreed

A central outcome of the meeting was an agreement to move forward on expanding the [[PRRS_LINK_1]]. Serbia and North Macedonia are expected to be among the first countries included in the next stage of the transport corridor’s development, which links Greece with central and eastern European energy markets.

Interconnections, resilience and investment priorities

The ministers also focused on boosting regional interconnections, increasing the resilience of national energy systems, and accelerating strategic infrastructure investments intended to reduce supply risks. Their aim is to support deeper market integration throughout south-eastern Europe by improving connectivity and lowering vulnerabilities in national supply arrangements.

Regular ministerial framework set

The four countries agreed to formalize their cooperation through regular ministerial meetings. The next gathering is scheduled to take place in Serbia this September.

Greece links cooperation with stability and growth

Greek Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou said regional energy cooperation is increasingly viewed as an instrument for stability and economic growth. He pointed to Greece’s role in promoting infrastructure projects, market integration and interconnection initiatives designed to strengthen both regional energy security and broader geopolitical resilience.

Papastavrou added that the meeting reflected growing alignment among participating countries, with efforts shifting toward concrete project implementation focused on securing long-term energy supply and supporting sustainable economic development across the region.