EU to offer 250 million euros to Moldova to overcome energy crisis

Chisinau, Nov. 10 /MOLDPRES/- The European Union will offer the Republic of Moldova 250 million euros to overcome the energy crisis. President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen made the statement at a today's joint press conference with head of state Maia Sandu.

According to the European official, the money is part of an additional support package and will be allocated starting January 1, 2023. "The European Union stands by the Republic of Moldova, my visit today proves this fact. Russia is attacking Ukraine and the country's energy goals. In this way it creates chaos, uses energy resources as a weapon. The EU will help you deal with the crisis. We have prepared additional aid of 250 million euros. Thus, 100 million euros will be offered as a grant, and the other 100 million as a loan. The money is given to be able to diversify gas sources. At the same time, 50 million euros represents budgetary support for supporting the most vulnerable people. This aid is offered to enable the procurement of energy resources, so that Moldova can get through this winter", said Ursula von der Leyen.

Maia Sandu thanked the European Union for the support given during the pandemic, refugee and energy crises. "We are grateful for the help provided. The Republic of Moldova is facing the worst energy crisis in the last three decades. The Chisinau authorities are making great efforts to provide the country with energy and to ease the price burden. People support us in this effort by saving. We can only face the crisis together to get through this winter", said Maia Sandu.

The president said that Moldova is determined to advance on the path of European integration. "The European Union has always been by our side. We are firmly committed to the process of achieving reforms. We count on a rapid assessment in 2023 to launch accession negotiations afterwards. We will continue to implement the Association Agreement to bring the country into the EU", Maia Sandu said.

These days, Maia Sandu has meetings with the EU leadership. Ursula von der Leyen is paying a working visit to Moldova today. Tomorrow, President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola will arrive in Chisinau.