The documents were published on the web pages of the Ministry of the Environment and Spatial Planning Monday, in what marks the start of a 30-day period of public consultation, the ministry said.

The documents include the master plan and programme of exploration works, as well as a strategic study about the impact of the plan on the environment.

Slovenia requested inclusion in the assessment of cross-border impact in January, arguing that the project could have an environmental impact on Slovenian territory.

After Slovenia has studied the documents, the two countries are expected to hold a meeting to debate possible cross-border impacts, measures to mitigate negative consequences, and the way the public and the appropriate authorities will be notified about the project's progress.

Six companies have submitted bids for hydrocarbon exploration in the Adriatic and contracts are to be signed soon. The exploration will last 3-6 years.