Gazprom interested to invest in Albania

TIRANA, Dec.18- The Russian energy giant, Gazprom, has signed a collaboration agreement with the Albanian Deputy Minister of Economy, Trade and Energy. Gazprom has shown interest in the potential building of two gas transport lines in the Balkans. The project, called gas line blue, is the one that is closer to Albania. The integrated gas grid is one of the aims of the Russian company in the region. Experts from the company and the Albanian Ministry met in order to create a joint team that will work towards coordinating the efforts of gas exports with Albanian energy experts. Deputy Minister, Eno Bozdo, explained that “Albania is interested in the gas pipeline that connects Russia to Western Europe through a connection in Italy.” During this meeting, Gazprom expert Grigori Elkin explained that experts have arrived at no final decision, though they affirm that there are joint opportunities and the possibility exists to run one of the Balkan pipelines through Albania. Gazprom has recently signed a collaboration agreement with the Italian company, “ENI”, as well as with Greek partners.
Bozdo also confirmed the desire of the Albanian government to make Albania part of the regional gas grid as its energy diversification needs will make it a necessity. The Energy Company of Russia will collaborate with KESH to participate in the tender for power plants in the Vjosa and Devoll rivers.