Former Prime Minister Calls for Transparency, Warns of Legal Consequences
Bucharest, February 4, 2024 – The Rosia Montana case, a longstanding legal battle between the Romanian state and Rosia Montana Gold Corporation, has taken a new turn as former Prime Minister Dacian Cioloș urges the current Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu to release all documents related to the dispute. Cioloș, who served as Prime Minister from 2015 to 2017, issued a stern warning, suggesting that non-compliance could lead to potential legal consequences.
Background of the Rosia Montana Case
The legal saga dates back to 2013 when Victor Ponta‘s government promised mining permits to Rosia Montana Gold Corporation. However, faced with intense public opposition, the majority of the Romanian Parliament abandoned the project. The mining company subsequently sued the Romanian state, leading to an ongoing arbitration dispute.
Cioloș Calls for Transparency
In a press release, Cioloș, along with European Parliament colleagues, parliamentarians, and civic activists, has officially requested the release of all information regarding the Gabriel Resources vs. Romania case. Key demands include making public the defences formulated by the Romanian state and providing the complete decision of the arbitration court.
Cioloș argues that these details are of significant public interest, especially considering the substantial damage caused to the Romanian state as a result of decisions made during Ponta’s tenure. He warns that withholding this information may impact the potential criminal liability of those involved in the contract.
Ciolacu’s Response and Government Preparedness
In response to Cioloș’ call for transparency, Prime Minister Ciolacu stated that the government is ready for discussions in the event that the Romanian state is obliged to pay damages. Ciolacu assures the public that all documents illustrating errors made by the Romanian side in this process will be made public.
The prime minister emphasised that he has requested all colleagues with information on the project, regardless of their stance, to gather relevant documents from the lawyers involved in the case. This collaborative effort aims to contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the situation.
Implications and Anticipation
As the Romanian public awaits the final decision in the Rosia Montana case, the government is gearing up for potential financial consequences. Ciolacu promises to disclose all documents, shedding light on political and administrative decisions that may have contributed to Romania’s loss in the legal battle.
As the February 10 deadline approaches, all eyes are on this high-profile legal dispute.
Editor: Andreea Gudin
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