The pipeline is projected to cost about EUR8.6 billion to build its offshore section and offshoots to run to many European countries. The pipeline will have a discharge of 63 billion cubic meters per year.
Permission for research to carry on with the pipeline laying that would pass through the Turkish part of the Black Sea floor is due to be obtained from Turkey.
“This date is close to the start of construction. If everything is ready and all permissions have been obtained, why put it off,” Sechin told reporters.
