The German giant Rhinebraun will invest more than DEM 1 billion in the modernisation of Maritsa East coal-mine complex. This was announced by Ulrich Jobs, manager of the international projects in the company. Today the Cabinet will take a decision on ceasing the pre-exploration activities and establishing a joint venture for exploitation of the ore deposits, said Head of Energy Agency Ivan Shilyashki. Rhinebraun will hold 67% of the future joint venture's capital. The rest 33% of the shares will be owned by the mining complex. Until 2005-2010 it is expected the annual output of lignite coals to reach 30 to 32 million tons.