Moldovan parliament approves state of emergency in energy sector starting Sept 26

CHISINAU. Sept 22 (Interfax) - The Moldovan parliament Tuesday approved the imposition of a state of emergency in the energy and hydrological sectors for a period of 60 days, starting September 26.

"The state of heightened readiness in the energy and hydrological sectors expires on September 25, and the risks that prompted its introduction have not disappeared, on the contrary, they have intensified [...]. The government's role is not to wait for a crisis to arise and then explain why no action was taken, but rather to ensure authorities possess the necessary tools to efficiently manage the situation before potential crises materialize," Moldovan Prime Minister Vasile Tofan said while presenting the bill to lawmakers.

Tofan said that the onset of the cold season brings a number of interconnected risks regarding supplies of gas, fuel, electricity and water resources, as well as high energy prices.

The National Security Council, led by President Maia Sandu, and the government had earlier approved the imposition of the state of emergency in the energy and hydrological sectors.

Previously, the Moldovan government had imposed a state of heightened readiness in the energy and water supply sectors since July 28.