A coalition comprising the United States and various Balkan and Central-Eastern European nations has embarked on a strategic initiative to enhance the supply of US liquefied natural gas (LNG) in the region. This effort was solidified during discussions held in Washington, which were part of the broader Transatlantic Gas Security Summit attended by representatives from 22 countries, including Albania, Poland, and others.
Thirteen governments have signed a joint declaration aimed at reforming the regional gas market. The agreement focuses on improving market resilience, enhancing transparency, and reducing regulatory barriers that impede gas imports and infrastructure development. Key participants in this initiative include Greece, Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Moldova, Ukraine, Croatia, Lithuania, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the United States. The signatories have committed to harmonizing gas trading platforms and streamlining tariff frameworks to facilitate new infrastructure projects while ensuring long-term supply stability.
The declaration underscores the necessity of mobilizing both public and private financing sources. This includes support from export credit agencies and multilateral lenders to secure affordable gas supplies across the region. Such financial backing is crucial for overcoming existing challenges related to infrastructure development.
Central to this initiative is the Vertical Corridor project designed to transport LNG from Greece through the Balkans into Eastern Europe and ultimately toward Ukraine. This route aims to utilize existing pipeline networks that were originally constructed for Russian gas transit. However, significant hurdles remain in the form of elevated transit fees and infrastructure bottlenecks that could hinder progress.
During the summit, six memoranda of understanding were also established. Notably, Atlantic SEE LNG Trade—a joint venture between Aktor and DEPA—finalized agreements with Naftogaz, Bulgargaz, Aluminij Industries in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as with the Albanian Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy. Additionally, separate contracts were made between Metlen and Shell for an annual supply ranging from 0.5 to 1 billion cubic meters of LNG over five years starting in 2027. Furthermore, Swiss-based MET Group also reached an agreement with Shell on similar terms.
Despite these advancements, officials have recognized ongoing technical and regulatory challenges facing the Vertical Corridor project. A working group has convened with ministers from Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova, and Ukraine alongside representatives from the US and European Union to address these issues comprehensively. Continued technical consultations are anticipated as stakeholders strive to convert political commitments into tangible operational infrastructure that could significantly alter gas supply dynamics in Central and Eastern Europe.
