Atomstroyexport's EUR 1 B claim against Bulgaria for scrapping the Belene NPP is "a very weak move," according to former Bulgarian Minister of Economy and Energy Traicho Traikov.

"I think that was a very weak move. They made a poor serve and now Bulgaria only has to slam the ball into their field," said Traikov Wednesday in an interview for the Bulgarian National Radio.

He explained that Bulgaria not only has very good arguments against the claim, but it could also use it as a ground to completely terminate the Belene NPP project.

"The Russian company has been in breach of many clauses of signed contracts so I think we have all chances to win the case," said Traikov.

The former Bulgarian Energy Minister said that he had hoped for a "friendly" parting of the parties on the project, which could minimize losses for both.

Traikov further commented that according to him Bulgaria does not need a new NPP, but must work hard at expanding the lives of already existing Units 5 and 6 of the Kozloduy NPP.

He said that his analysis shows that this would satisfy Bulgaria's energy needs for the coming 30 years.

Current Bulgarian Minister of Economy and Energy Delyan Dobrev has also said he is confident that his country will win the case, which is set to be decided at the International Court of Arbitration in Paris.

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