Natural Gas import issue generates harsh talks between Moldova and Russia

The negotiation process with the Russian Concern “Gazprom” regarding the conclusion of a contract on new natural gas delivery is developing quite difficult, declared for the press, on Wednesday, May 31, the Prime-minister Vasile Tarlev. The premier expressed his hope that the negotiations will have a good finishing. Tarlev declared that on Thursday, May 31, he received an official invitation for direct negotiations with the Russian Concern “Gazprom”. So, On Monday, June 5, a delegation of the Republic of Moldova will depart for Moscow to continue negotiations on this matter. The prime-minister avoided to comment the information published by the newspaper “Kommersant”, saying “Gazprom” intends to increase the delivery price of the natural gas for the Republic of Moldova up to 160 USD, declaring this is not official information. The present natural gas import contract with Russia expires on June 30, 2006. At the present moment, Gazprom delivers natural gases at a price of 110 USD for 1000 cube meters, comparing to 80 USD until January 1, 2006.