US government to extend aid under Moldova Energy Security Activity

The US Agency for International Development (USAID) will extend support to the Government of the Republic of Moldova, contributing to the development and consolidation of the energy sector through the USAID Moldova Energy Security Activity (MESA).

The details of this collaboration were reviewed during an event organised today by USAID, Moldpres reports.

Moldova will benefit from financial support, offered by the USA, to strengthen energy security, according to the 14th Amendment to the Assistance Agreement concluded between the governments of the two countries. Thus, the United States Government will provide an additional contribution of $19.5 million. The money will be used to reduce dependence on the Russian Federation by connecting key elements of our country's energy sector with European systems, as well as attracting investment in local energy production, diversifying natural gas supplies and increasing energy efficiency.

"We are grateful to the US Government for all the support it provides to our country in overcoming the energy crisis. A team of experts from the USAID Moldova Energy Security Activity works side by side with my team and colleagues, but together we are stronger. We have all the support that will help us get through this winter," Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Spînu, Minister of Infrastructure and Regional Development said at the event.

Also, the amendment sees the establishment of the terms and conditions on the USAID contribution worth $30 million, which will be offered to the Moldovan government. "This agreement represents an important step in Moldova's efforts to strengthen its energy security and minimize the increase in prices for consumers," said US Ambassador to Moldova Kent D. Logsdon.

The assistance agreement on the development objectives between the Government of the Republic of Moldova and the Government of the United States of America for sustainable economic growth anchored in European integration was signed in 2016. The total amount of non-refundable assistance resulting from the Amendments to this agreement is about $172.7 million.