Moldovan authorities see no grounds for declaring state of emergency in energy sector

CHISINAU. March 11 (Interfax) - There are no grounds yet for declaring a state of emergency in the energy sector in Moldova owing to the sharp rise in energy prices amid the crisis in the Middle East, Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu said at a government meeting on Wednesday.

Munteanu recalled that Moldova declared a state of heightened energy readiness a week ago following the outbreak of hostilities in the Middle East.

"We believe that there is no need to raise the alarm level now. We have sufficient resources and capabilities to maintain control of the situation," Munteanu emphasized.

Munteanu said that the authorities are monitoring oil prices closely. "High volatility in the markets remains, though trends have been largely positive in recent days," he said.

Munteanu also commented on several opposition proposals, including abolishing fuel excise taxes during the crisis. "Speculation is happening not only at gas stations, but also in the media. Those politicians who are recording the government's TikTok would be better off offering concrete proposals instead of engaging in populism. We are open to finding solutions jointly. The government is currently working toward consolidation and avoiding panic, as now is not the time to provoke each other," he said.

A week ago, on March 4, the Moldovan government declared a state of heightened readiness in the energy sector owing to the situation in the Middle East. Certain restrictions are in place during the state of heightened readiness. For example, key petroleum products currently in free circulation (import), temporary storage, and customs warehousing will not be able to be subsequently transferred to export/re-export status. Measures have also been introduced to cover domestic electricity consumption during peak hours.