The project to build a second Bulgarian nuclear power plant in the Danube town of Belene would not be solely a Russian-Bulgarian project, however, Belene will became a legal case.

The statement was made by the country's Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, Tsvetan Tsvetanov, speaking Saturday in an interview for Darik radio.

He reiterated earlier information, coming from Prime Minister, Boyko Borisov, that there was an option to install at the existing Kozloduy NPP the first of the Russian-made nuclear reactors slated for the future Belene plant, for which Bulgaria has already paid two-thirds of the price.

"We are seeking to include leading European and international companies in order to advance in this project that we have talked about so much in the last two years. The decision must be in the interest of the State, and the public," the Minister told the host, adding communication between Bulgaria and the European Commission and leading European countries would be crucial for the future of Belene.

Tsvetanov did, however, explain that Bulgaria is entering a legal dispute with Russia because there is a signed contract between Sofia and Moscow. He pointed out that such litigation could last for years and the country will have to pay certain penalties even if this decision was to be made faster.