Romanian Prime Minister Victor Ponta recently stated that, as an MP, he would vote against the bill to be initiated related to Rosia Montana gold mining project in Romania. However, as PM, he can’t give a negative vote to the project, as he needs to attract new investments to Romania.

Victor Ponta also added that there are several steps to be followed when talking about exploitation. In the case of Rosia Montana mining project, Victor Ponta said he managed to take a decision “which involves the following steps: first, the environmental studies are completed, and the need for investments, in order to have all the environmental warranties, no matter what happens there. Secondly, the negotiations with the investors are completed,” according to local news agency Agerpres.

The Romanian prime minister also added that the Government will not take decisions on this project, but a draft law on this matter will be submitted to the Parliament for debate.

Rosia Montana gold mining project has been strongly opposed in Romania and its development stalled for several years, as the project does not yet have environmental approval. The Rosia Montana site in Alba county is evaluated at some 300 tonnes of gold and 1,600 tonnes of silver, and has been under concession to Roşia Montană Gold Corporation for exploitation.

Opposed by NGOs, the project has been lobbied for by politicians, including by Romania’s president Traian Basescu, who argued the gold mine would bring revenues to the state budget and much needed jobs.

Irina Popescu, irina.popescu@romania-insider.com