Czech Republic cooperation with its neighbours plays a vital role in central European energy sector development, as the state is landlocked between four countries -Germany, Poland, Austria and Slovakia. Gas plans NET4GAS, the Czech Republic gas pipeline operator, together with its Polish counterpart GAZ-SYSTEM, is planning a major expansion programme. A new pipeline is scheduled to be added to the existing one between the two countries, as well as building the first line to Austria. The deadline for completion of both lines is about 2020. The expansion plan is welcomed by Michal Svab, a Czech analyst at Prague-based energy consultancy ENA. He considers that his country's connection with Poland is currently 'insufficient' as far as gas transport is concerned, and recognises the opportunity for a new link with the Austrian neighbour.
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