Romanian PM Says He Hasn’t Changed Opinion Regarding Shale Gas Exploitation
Romanian Prime Minister Victor Ponta said his position regarding shale gas exploration and exploitation remained unchanged following protests in Pungesti, Vaslui county.
The prime minister highlighted Romania must secure its independence in the energy sector.
The country must produce its own natural gas to stop imports, he added.
US energy giant Chevron has delayed plans to drill for shale gas at its field in Silistea locality, Pungesti commune, in response to protests against hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, a controversial process used to extract gas and oil from shale deposits.
“Our priority is to conduct activities in a safe and environmentally responsible manner consistent with the permits under which we operate,” Chevron said in a statement Thursday.
Thursday marked the fourth day of protests in Silistea village against Chevron’s plans to use fracking to drill for shale gas. The villagers are worried that the technique would affect the environment and said they were prepared to do “what it takes” to prevent the start of the works. (Curentul)
Romanian PM Goes On Official Visit To U.S. Monday
Romania’s Prime Minister Victor Ponta will go on official visit to the United States Monday.
It is not yet known if the prime minister will meet with U.S. Vice-President Joe Biden.
Journalists who will accompany Ponta were asked not to disclose the prime minister’s meeting agenda and the exact date of his departure, as the visit was uncertain. (Evenimentul Zilei)
Romanian Culture Minister Booed By Demonstrators Against Rosia Montana Project
Romania’s Culture Minister Daniel Barbu was booed Thursday evening in Bucharest by demonstrators against the Rosia Montana gold mining project.
Protesters called on the minister to resign and hurled stones at his car.
The Rosia Montana gold mining project was launched in 1997 and plans to open the mine have been on and off for the past 14 years because of environmental concerns entailed by cyanide mining. (Gandul)