The feasibility study to extend the Iasi-Ungheni gas pipeline up to Chisinau will be ready by the start of the next year at the latest, while the constriction works will be completed by the end of 2015. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy Andrian Candu told a news conference that this is the goal set by the authorities, IPN reports.

The EU provided €10 million for building the gas pipeline up to Chisinau, while the project costs €60-70 million. The minister said that in the discussions with representatives of Russia’s Gazprom, he realized that they understand the necessity of building an alternative gas pipeline. The company assumed commitments before the Moldovan consumers and, if particular circumstances prevent the supply of Russian gas to Moldova, Gazprom would be interested in cooperating with Romania, which could satisfy the energy necessities of Moldova.

Head of the EU Delegation to Moldova Pirkka Tapiola said the EU will help Moldova obtain loans in advantageous conditions from the European Investment Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.

In order to ensure the country’s energy security, the authorities plan to set up electric power lines of interconnection with Ukraine and Romania. A group of European experts are making the feasibility study for placing these lines.