The energy ministers of Greece, Serbia, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria met in Athens to strengthen regional cooperation on energy infrastructure, supply security, and cross-border connectivity projects across southeastern Europe. The discussions highlighted the growing importance of joint initiatives aimed at improving the region’s long-term energy stability and economic integration.
One of the key outcomes of the meeting was the agreement to advance cooperation on expanding the Vertical Corridor gas route. Serbia and North Macedonia are expected to become the first countries included in the next stage of the transport corridor’s development, which connects Greece with central and eastern European energy markets.
The ministers focused on enhancing regional interconnections, increasing the resilience of national energy systems, and accelerating strategic infrastructure investments designed to reduce supply risks and support deeper market integration throughout southeastern Europe. The four countries also agreed to formalize their cooperation framework through regular ministerial meetings, with the next gathering scheduled to take place in Serbia this September.
Greek Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou emphasized that regional energy cooperation is increasingly being viewed as a key instrument for stability and economic growth. He underlined Greece’s role in promoting infrastructure projects, market integration, and interconnection initiatives intended to strengthen both regional energy security and broader geopolitical resilience.
According to Papastavrou, the meeting reflected a growing alignment among the participating countries, with cooperation now moving toward the concrete implementation of projects focused on securing long-term energy supply and supporting sustainable economic development across the region.
