Traicho Traikov, Minister of Economy, Energy and Tourism, has suggested that the shale gas debate in Bulgaria will resume so that society can be presented with the absolute truth about the matter.

"This is a precious resource for achieving Bulgaria's energy independence and if we can use it safely, I do not see why not," the Energy Minister said in an interview for private TV station TV7 on Thursday.

He explained that a parliamentary commission was being set up to examine cutting-edge research by Bulgarian and foreign experts on economy, energy and environmental protection.

Traikov admitted that the energy sector involved an interplay of numerous interests.

"I shall not be pointing a finger at anyone, but let me say who is interested in all of this - it is the defenders of the status quo. There are just too many interests at play," the Energy Minister stated.

He went on to say that he had held talks with France's Energy and Industry Minister Eric Besson, who had implied that the shale gas debate would soon be renewed in the country.

France and Bulgaria are the only countries to have imposed a moratorium on shale gas exploration and production.

"It is hard to keep a the lid on a boiling pot," Traikov remarked, adding that the discussion on shale gas development in Bulgaria would resume soon.

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