Chisinau International Airport Added to Non-Privatizable Assets List to Ensure State Security

Chisinau International Airport in Moldova has been added to the list of non-privatizable assets under a new law published in the Official Journal, effective May 24, 2024. This move aims to ensure state security and implement international restrictive measures.

Why this matters:

This move to add Chisinau International Airport to the list of non-privatizable assets has significant implications for Moldova's national security and its relationships with other countries. It may also have consequences for the country's economy and its ability to attract foreign investment.

The decision comes amid growing concerns about Russia's advances in Ukraine and potential interference in neighboring Moldova. The geopolitical tensions in the region have prompted Moldova to take precautionary steps to safeguard critical infrastructure.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is scheduled to visit Chisinau, the capital of Moldova, to meet with President Maia Sandu. The visit is part of an effort to reaffirm US support for Moldova's progress in joining the European Union. The US has expressed concerns about Russian influence operations in Moldova, particularly in light of the 1,500 Russian troops stationed in the disputed territory of Transnistria.

James O'Brien, the top US diplomat for Europe, highlighted the ongoing concerns, stating, *"There's not a direct military threat that we see at this time, but there's ongoing Russian influence operations, and that is of concern."*

Deputy Prime Minister Dumitru Alaiba mentioned that the ministry is preparing a document on managing the privatization of state capital enterprises, emphasizing that *"probably, not everything should be put up for privatization. "* This statement underscores the government's cautious approach to privatization, especially in the current geopolitical climate.

Foreign investors have shown increasing interest in Moldova, with new production facilities for high-value-added products being established in the country. However, the situation remains complex, as evidenced by the Japanese company Fujikura's closure of its 1,200-job automotive enterprise in Moldova. Despite this, the company has not fully exited the Moldovan market.

The addition of Chisinau International Airport to the list of non-privatizable assets reflects Moldova's commitment to protecting strategic infrastructure amid regional instability. As the country navigates these challenges, the focus remains on ensuring state security and aligning with international measures.

Key Takeaways

• Moldova adds Chisinau International Airport to non-privatizable assets list.
• Move aims to ensure state security and implement international measures.
• Russia's advances in Ukraine prompt Moldova to safeguard critical infrastructure.
• US reaffirms support for Moldova's EU integration amid Russian influence concerns.
• Moldova adopts cautious approach to privatization amid geopolitical tensions.