World Bulletin / News Desk

The Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP), a westbound natural gas pipeline project which is expected to reduce Europe's dependence on Russian resources, has moved to re-launch its procurement process.

The TAP announced the re-launching of purchases on its website Tuesday for the construction of the onshore and offshore pipeline, compressor stations and the pipeline receiving terminal along with contracts to procure steel pipes and large diameter pipeline valves.

"After reviewing its strategy and schedule, TAP decided to initiate new conditions for the provision of goods and services that the natural gas pipeline project requires," the statement said.

TAP aims at enhancing the security of natural gas supply as well as diversification of gas supplies for the European markets.

In 2003 the pre-feasibility study for TAP was conducted and the pipeline developers plan to begin construction in early 2015 to be ready for the first gas from Azerbaijan by 2019.