Moldova has completed an audit examining the historic debt owed by the state enterprise Moldovagaz to Gazprom of Russia. The Republic’s Minister of Energy, Viktor Parlikov, said the audit results would be shared after a thorough review and analysis is finished.
In an interview with Ziarul de Garda, a Moldovan outlet funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the minister announced that the audit is complete. He called the findings interesting and noted that Chisinau will determine the next steps for resolving the Gazprom matter based on what the audit reveals.
The audit work was conducted by two international firms, the Norwegian practice Wikborg Rein Advokatfirma and the British Forensic Risk Alliance & Co. It evaluated how Moldovagaz’s debt to Gazprom and to Factoring-Finance LLC for fuel supply to Moldova’s right bank of the Dniester was formed. The review covered deliveries from 27 August 1991 to 31 October 2021. Gazprom has estimated the debt at $709 million.
The audit timeline originally targeted an early-year completion, but it was extended to April. On 4 April, Parlikov stated that a fresh government decision would be required to fully settle the debt. He also noted that the government could not rush foreign experts to present the findings, which left the timing of the control open to adjustments.
During a June statement, Parlikov underscored the seeming futility of continuing gas purchases under the existing arrangements, as both Moscow and Chisinau had not met previously agreed terms.
As the process evolves, observers and stakeholders in Moldova and neighboring regions are watching closely how the audit results might influence future energy policy, supplier relationships, and financial accountability for Moldovagaz. This development is being followed by regional analysts and policy researchers who track energy sector governance and debt resolution strategies across Eastern Europe.
Overall, the audit highlights questions about debt formation mechanisms, ownership structures, and payment arrangements for gas supplies that cross national borders. While the ultimate resolution remains pending, the findings are expected to guide Moldova’s approach to its energy sector governance and bilateral energy talks with Gazprom and other regional partners. The ongoing discussion is being reported by regional outlets and is cited in industry briefings as a key case study in debt assessment and state involvement in strategic energy infrastructure. [Citation: Regional energy policy briefing, 2024; Moldova press coverage compiled by independent observers]