Moldovagaz didn’t find a commercial solution to clear the current debt to Gazprom. Therefore, the Government became involved to identity solutions and guarantee the supply of gas to the country’s citizens, said Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Spînu, Minister of Infrastructure and Regional Development. According to the official, after the new gas price started to be applied in November, Moldovagaz has to fully pay for the consumed gas to Gazprom, IPN reports.

In a post on Facebook, Andrei Spînu said the Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development received the approach made by Moldovagaz following the created situation and a meeting of the Supervisory Board of Moldovagaz was held on November 22, at the request of Gazprom. Moldovagaz’ current debt for October and November was the only issue discussed there.

After the meeting, Moldovagaz was issued with a payment notice to clear the debt during 48 hours. The debt now totals US$74,278,446.91. The debt accumulated because the purchase price of gas in October was over US$790 per 1,000 cubic meters, while the gas rate applied in October could not cover the difference. The overdue amount was to be paid by November 20. The gas payment formula is part of the main contract between Moldovagaz and Gazprom and is not a new condition.

Sergey Kupriyanov, press secretary to Chairman of the Management Committee of Gazprom, stated for “Rossia 24” channel that Gazprom will halt the supply of gas to the Republic of Moldova in 48 hours if Chisinau does not pay its current debts.