Moldova’s Minister of Energy Dorin Jungietu stated in an interview with “Report” that Azerbaijan could occupy an important place in Moldova’s energy diversification strategy in terms of liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply.
According to the minister, Azerbaijan is regarded as an attractive long-term partner for Moldova, alongside other gas sources in Europe. The development of cooperation will largely depend on the commercial competitiveness of the gas, optimization of transportation tariffs, and the possibility of making maximum efficient use of existing transit routes.
Dorin Jungietu noted that the Moldovan government is developing an energy security strategy and regulatory framework, but specific procurement and commercial decisions are made by licensed market participants in accordance with existing market rules.
The minister emphasized that energy cooperation between Azerbaijan and Moldova is no longer limited to gas supply alone. The current dialogue also covers areas such as trade in petroleum products, development of storage infrastructure, use of renewable energy sources, and exchange of technical expertise.
Jungietu added that natural gas purchases in Moldova are conducted entirely on commercial and market principles. The state trader “Energocom” is holding constructive negotiations with the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR) and has signed a framework agreement for spot and short-term operations in line with market conditions. However, at the current stage, no long-term supply contract has been concluded.
The minister highlighted regional logistics and transportation costs along corridors as the main constraint having the greatest impact on the final price. Optimizing this factor will play a decisive role in the success of future cooperation.
This interview draws attention against the backdrop of Azerbaijan strengthening its position as an LNG and natural gas supplier in the European market and the expansion of energy ties with Eastern European countries.