President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen called Azerbaijan a reliable partner of Europe.

APA reports that the President of the European Commission said this during his speech at the opening of the Bulgaria-Uayan Interconnector (ICGB) project in Sofia.

Ursula von der Leyen said that the Interconnector between Bulgaria and Greece (ICGB) project has been on the table for more than 10 years: "The issues and discussions about this project started in 2009.

"At that time, Bulgaria was seriously damaged by Gazprom's decision, because Gazprom refused to export gas through Ukrainian territory. It took time to realize this project, but we were determined. This project required patience. Today, on the occasion of the launch of this project, Bulgaria and I congratulate the Greek governments.

The EU supported this project from the first day.

We have provided both political and financial support.

I would say that today is the beginning of a new era for both Bulgaria and South-Eastern Europe."

The President of the European Commission reminded that Bulgaria imported 80 percent of its gas from Russia until Russia declared war on Ukraine.

"This was before the start of Russia's military war against Ukraine and the energy war against Europe. Today, this project seriously changes the situation in terms of the energy security of Bulgaria and Europe. It means the elimination of dependence on Russian gas, independence."

Von der Leyen emphasized that this interconnector has the potential to export gas that will supply all of Bulgaria.

"This is great news at a very difficult time. Both in Bulgaria and in other regions of Europe, people are feeling the consequences of Russia's war, but due to such projects, Europe will have gas supplies for the winter. Europe has worked hard in this direction and taken important steps, especially in recent months: The replacement of alternative gas sources of Russian gas with more reliable sources and partners. President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev is here, I visited you for this purpose in July. Our friends and other partners like Norway, USA, Algeria are helping us in this difficult time."

The President of the European Commission von der Leyen informed about the EU's steps regarding energy security.

"We took a joint decision on the protection and efficient use of our gas reserves/storages.

The long-term solution is related to renewable energy." The EU official said that countries should invest in this field. "Renewable energy is more efficient in various aspects and makes the country independent.

The energy crisis is serious, but I believe we will overcome it.

Let's form a strong and solid energy union together."