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29.12.2011 16:19

Turkey Approved South Stream

The gas pipeline will bypass Ukraine, linking directly to Bulgaria’s gas infrastructure

AUTHOR: publics.bg

© Gazprom

Just a couple of days before the end of 2011, Turkey has given its approval for the South Stream pipeline project, which will transport Russian natural gas to Europe by passing through Turkish territorial waters, Today’s Zaman reported.

The deal is a major blow to Kiev because it will bypass Ukraine, linking the pipelines of the Gazprom-led link on Bulgarian territory after passing through Turkey's territorial waters. Bulgaria and Russia have already sorted out ownership issues with regard to the pipeline in Bulgarian territory. The Ukrainian embassy in Ankara declined to comment on the agreement, saying the embassy will issue a statement later.

The formal agreement between Turkey and Russia was signed on Wednesday in Moscow between the heads of the state-owned Turkish Pipeline Corporation (BOTAŞ) and Russian energy giant Gazprom. Turkish Energy Minister Taner Yıldız, Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin and Deputy Prime Minister Igor Seçin were also present during the ceremony.

Parliament's Industry, Trade, Energy and Technology Commission Chairman Mücahit Fındıklı hailed the agreement as a “success” from the Turkish perspective, saying Turkey has reaffirmed its position as a secure energy supply route. “The gas security of Europe hinges on Turkey. This geopolitical position of Turkey brings economic benefits to Turkey as well,” he told Today's Zaman. “Other pipeline projects with which Turkey is involved do not compete with South Stream but rather complement it. Turkey is playing its role very successfully,” he added.

Pleased with Turkey's decision, Putin described the agreement as “a New Year's gift for Russia,” stressing that Russia has realized once more that Turkey is a reliable partner. "Turkey's approval is the most serious evidence that the project will be built in strict accordance with the schedule -- that is by the end of 2015," said Gazprom Chief Executive Alexei Miller.