TAP already in intensive stage of implementation – Albanian minister

The Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) project, which envisages transportation of Azerbaijani gas to Europe, is in the intensive stage, said Albanian Minister of Infrastructure and Energy Damian Gjiknuri.

He made the remarks during a meeting with Acting Special Envoy and Coordinator for International Energy Affairs at the US Department of State Sue Saarnio, said a message from Albanian Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed intensification of cooperation between Albania and the US in making efforts to increase energy security in Europe.

In this regard, they focused on the Southern Gas Corridor project, especially the construction of TAP pipeline.

Gjiknuri briefed the US official about the steps taken by Albanian government to facilitate the construction of this very important project that will change the country’s energy map.

The minister also highlighted the US support to the Ionian Adriatic Pipeline (IAP) project that affects not only Albania but Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia.

"At the time when TAP project is already in the intensive stage of implementation, we are working closely with the neighboring countries to make a reality with IAP,” said Gjiknuri.