Richard Morningstar, appointed as special envoy for Eurasian Energy, met Bulgarian Prime Minister Boiko Borissov in Sofia on December 4 2009. During the meeting, Morningstar congratulated Borissov on his country’s effort to become an important energy player in Europe.

Morningstar was appointed to provide the US secretary of state with strategic advice on policy issues pertaining to development, transit and distribution of energy resources in Eurasia. In Bulgaria, he told Borissov that "your actions will allow Bulgaria to become diversified in energy resources", Focus News Agency quoted him as saying on December 4 2009.

The South Stream and Nabucco pipeline projects were high on the agenda for discussion between the energy adviser and the Prime Minister.

"Your tactics are right; we are aware and appreciative of your efforts. You, Mr Prime Minister are a man of a strong character, and under your leadership, Bulgaria can secure a leading place in regional energy matters and policy making," Morningstar said.

The American diplomat also praised the anti-corruption measures the new administration had implemented. Borissov expressed his gratitude for American support, but outlined that the former administration had signed financially untenable contracts that Bulgaria could not afford and that the country was obliged to pay steep compensation as a result.

Borissov and Morningstar also discussed further bilateral co-operation between the United Stated and Bulgaria as well as the removal of the visa regime for Bulgarians travelling to the US.

"I was very satisfied with the discussion I had with Foreign Minister Roumyana Zheleva in Washington several days ago," Morningstar told Bulgarian media.

Later on December 4, Morningstar will meet Economy, Energy and Tourism Minister, Traicho Traikov.