Prime Minister Valeriu Strelet signed in Brussels a memorandum of understanding on Moldova’s participation in the Central East South Europe Gas Connectivity High Level Group (CESEC), which will increase the country’s access to the regional natural gas networks. The memorandum was signed in the meeting with the European Commission Vice President for Energy Union Maroš Šefčovič, IPN reports.
According to the Government’s press service, Valeriu Strelet said the energy security sector is a top priority for Moldova and welcomed the constant assistance provided by the EU in strengthening the energy capacities by implementing infrastructure projects in the energy sector. He referred especially to the Iasi-Ungheni gas pipeline and the need to extend the pipeline to Chisinau.
Maroš Šefčovič suggested that when the feasibility study is completed, Moldovan and EU experts should work out a plan of action for cooperation and attraction of financial assistance from donors. He highly appreciated the Government’s interest in developing alternative sources of energy, noting the EU is ready to offer the necessary expertise in this regard.
While in Brussels, Valeriu Strelet also met with the Vice President of the European Commission Valdis Dombrovskis, who is responsible for the euro and social dialog. The two officials discussed the macroeconomic stability in Moldova, the situation in the financial-banking sector and the steps taken by the authorities to stabilize the banking sector. They reiterated the importance of signing a memorandum with the IMF so as to be able to continue implementing he financial assistance programs provided by the EU.
The Premier also discussed with Commissioner for European Neighborhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations Johannes Hahn. The interlocutors conferred in particular on the process of implementing the Association Agreement by Moldova and on the justice sector reform, the fight against corruption and the public administration reform. The two also discussed the situation in the banking sector and the developments witnessed in the Transnistrian conflict settlement process. Valeriu Strelet invited Johannes Hahn to pay a visit to Moldova.
