State to double road subsidies in 2007

About MDL 2 mln, twice as much as planned before, is the sum to be allotted for the renovation and reconstruction of roads in Moldova in 2007. This announcement was made by President Vladimir Voronin during the inauguration of the new minister of Transport and Road Management, Vasile Ursu. According to the head of state, among the goals of the Ministry of Transport and Road Management are included such actions as the finishing of the Northern Bus Station project, as well as solving the problems related to the transportation of passengers. Voronin said that the decision on the appointment of Ursu to the office of Minister of Transport was grounded on “his large experience within the Chisinau City Hall, his skills, responsibility proved in the implementation process of some important projects last year, including the construction and renovation of the streets in Chisinau.” Referring to the dismissal of Miron Gagauz, Voronin said that Gagauz returned to his old office - head of the State Enterprise “Railway Moldova”. This action is aiming at developing and strengthening the field. According to the head of state, the modernisation and enlargement of the railway networks is another strategic aim. Voronin emphasised in this respect the importance of constructing the Giurgiulesti-Cahul railway portion, as well as the electrification of the railways. PM Vasile Tarlev has previously requested the specialised state institutions to make efforts to attract foreign companies in the construction of roadways, in light of the fact that there are no such organisations in Moldova. At the same time, 95% of the engaged workers will be locals. According to experts, the total cost of Moldova’s roadways is valued at USD 12 bln. About a half of them are in bad condition and need restoration.