In an interview with Bulgaria's TV7, Traicho Traikov, the nation's Minister of Economy, Energy and Tourism, shared his discussion with France's Energy and Industry Minister Eric Besson.

Bulgaria and France have both taken steps to halt the exoploration and production on unconventional hydrocarbons (shale gas and shale oil), using the process of hydraulic fracturing.

Traikov said that he had held talks with Minister Besson, who had implied that the shale gas debate would soon be renewed in France.

The Bulgarian minister also alluded that "the defenders of the status quo" has been active in the shale gas debate in Bulgaria, which he expected would also be renewed.

"This is a precious resource for achieving Bulgaria's energy independence and if we can use it safely, I do not see why not," commented Traikov.