Sweden pledges 8.7 million euros to reduce Moldova's energy vulnerability
Sweden is going to provide the Republic of Moldova with approximately 8.7 million euros to help reduce its energy vulnerability. Benjamin Dousa, Sweden’s Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade, made the announcement today during a press conference in Chișinău.
“This support will be directed toward the most vulnerable households and help reduce the burden of energy costs this winter. This comes in addition to the support the EU has announced to assist Moldova during this cold season. Our support will certainly complement the crucial efforts of the Moldovan authorities to ensure stability in the supply of gas and electricity,” Benjamin Dousa said.
In this context, Moldova’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mihai Popșoi, stated, “Sweden reaffirms its commitment to supporting Moldova’s energy independence today.”
“Minister Dousa’s visit comes at a critical juncture, given the artificial difficulties imposed by others, hoping to undermine us and create crises in Moldova. However, our partners, including Sweden, the Scandinavian countries, the Baltic states, and the European Union, have always supported us. The support provided by Sweden helps us diversify our energy sources and supply chains,” Vice Prime Minister Mihai Popșoi stated.
As reported by European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos, who visited Chișinău in early February, a new financial package worth 250 million euros is expected to arrive in Chișinău this year. Moreover, the European Union will allocate 60 million euros to the Transnistrian region to address its energy needs, though the disbursement of funds will be conditional.
Benjamin Dousa, Sweden’s Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade, is visiting Moldova for the first time.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
