Recent success in gaining favorable conditions for the import of Russian gas are important, but in no way eliminate energy dependence from Russia, Bulgarian minister of economy and energy Traicho Traikov.

Speaking in an interview for Bulgarian National Radio, Traikov commented on Saturday's negotiations with a Russian delegation headed by Russian energy minister Sergey Shmatko regarding gas deliveries to Bulgaria and the South Stream gas pipeline project.

The two sides reached an agreement for lower prices of gas and for elimination of notorious intermediaries. They also signed a “Road Map” for South Stream.

“What we have negotiated is just the beginning, not the end,” said Traikov Sunday, adding that there is still much to do in terms of fleshing out the agreements. Russia and Bulgaria have to negotiate the exact details for new contracts for delivery of gas by June 30, 2011. A deadline was set at August 10, 2010 for the Russian side to sent a first draft to Bulgaria. Talks are expected to continue through the summer.

Referring to Saturday's negotiations, Traikov said they were “normal and rational”, but the two parties needed time in order to reach common ground. He was confident the results are “good for Bulgaria.”

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