North European Gas Pipeline (Nord Stream) Foreign Policy Implications of the German-Russian Project
The proposed pipeline would bypass several EU member states and has prompted political controversy
Justification for the Project Increasing demand for natural gas Fears of supply disruptions with land pipelines Specific advantages for German energy firms
Pipeline Consortium 51%24.5 % German owned companies
Core Concerns Polish and Baltic state opposition Dependence on Russian gas supply (recent Ukraine and Georgia shutdowns) Environmental concerns / Relations with Nordic states
Implications for Germany Direct supply of future natural gas amid rising demand Creates jobs within Germany German-Russian relations would falter should project be cancelled
Recommendations Continue construction and support of proposed pipeline Promote Liquid Natural Gas as alternative Pursue other supply sources (Northern Africa, Central Asia) Sign specific deals with countries opposed