The lack of agreements with Moldova on gas supplies does not in any way affect the foreign policy image of Russia and Gazprom, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was quoted by TASS as saying. He added that Gazprom is open to further talks that will lead to mutually acceptable solutions

“So far, the de facto situation is that they failed to reach an agreement. Moldova has a debt to Gazprom, the debt is quite serious, it is growing. There is a question related to this debt, the question of a new contract. There is a seller, there is a buyer. The terms of the contract must be agreed, if opinions do not coincide, then nothing can be done. But, of course, Gazprom is open for further contacts and a search for mutually acceptable solutions”, Peskov told reporters when asked to comment on the ongoing gas supply negotiations between Moldova and Russia.

The Kremlin spokesman underscored that lack of agreements with Moldova on gas supplies does not in any way affect the foreign policy image of Russia and Gazprom. “The image of Gazprom is great. You all heard and know the statements of European leaders, heads of counterparty companies, that were repeatedly voiced over the past few weeks, that Gazprom is fully fulfilling all its obligations”, Peskov said.

He insists the gas supply talks with Moldova are “a purely commercial issue”. “Gazprom cannot give gas for free and cannot forgive debts, this is a commercial company.”

Asked to comment on reports that Europe is helping Moldova with gas supplies, Peskov noted that Chisinau is buying gas there at a price higher than that discussed in negotiations with Russia. “In this respect, we cannot comment on the actions of the Moldovan side”, he added.

A delegation headed by Moldova’s Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Spînu is now in Sankt Petersburg negotiating a new gas supply deal with Gazprom. Earlier today Spînu said the talks are “constructive” and the “efforts to find a point of convergence for both parties are intense”.