Sakova: We're Seeking Ways to Obtain Natural Gas at Lowest Price Possible

Zagreb/Bratislava, 1 July (TASR-correspondent) – The Slovak government is actively seeking ways to secure natural gas at the lowest possible price, Slovak Economy Minister Denisa Sakova (Voice-SD) claimed on Tuesday, responding to remarks by President Peter Pellegrini, who announced talks between Slovakia and Croatia on the potential use of the LNG terminal on the Croatian island of Krk. TASR learnt the news from its special correspondent. „We are essentially creating a supplies mix — some still coming from Russia and others from various European partners. Our top criterion, first and foremost, is price,” Sakova stated. She explained that Croatian Economy Minister Ante Susnjar had assured her that Croatia is currently advancing several investment projects aimed at increasing both gas storage capacity and transmission capacity. Additionally, Croatia is working on an investment initiative to expand oil transit capacity from the Adriatic Sea through Hungary to Slovakia. Sakova also noted that restoring gas transit through Ukraine would have a positive impact on the Slovak economy. According to her, Slovakia used to earn between €500 million and €700 million annually from gas transit via Ukraine - revenue that has now been lost. She added that this transit route had been the cheapest option in Europe; alternative supply routes involve significantly higher transmission fees, which are ultimately passed on to both households and industry. „We are negotiating the best possible conditions for Slovakia, including ensuring that, in case of a physical shortage of gas, there will be a regulation from the European Commission guaranteeing solidarity from other member states toward Slovakia,” she concluded. mf