Moldova aims for €300M Chișinău Airport modernization with european partner
Chișinău International Airport finds itself embroiled in renewed controversy, with the former concessionaire, Avia Invest, raising concerns about the potential risks for investors participating in a forthcoming tender for the airport's operation.
Meanwhile, the Moldovan government remains steadfast in its pursuit of a European partner for the airport's future, with Infrastructure and Regional Development Minister Andrei Spînu firmly stating the importance of excluding "criminal groups" from its management.
Avia Invest's Apprehensions
Dumitru Lunga, representing Avia Invest, contends that the ongoing legal dispute between the company and the government renders a new concession tender legally untenable. He cautioned potential investors about the significant financial risks associated with participating in the tender, emphasising that "the consequences are clear - only losses."
Lunga further highlighted the absence of a definitive court ruling regarding the restitution of the airport's assets to Avia Invest. This lack of clarity, he argued, places potential investors in a precarious position.
Government's Optimistic Vision
Despite Avia Invest's warnings, Minister Spînu expressed unwavering confidence in securing a suitable European investor. He unveiled ambitious plans for the airport's modernization, including the construction of a new terminal, runway, and parking lot, with initial investments estimated to reach 300 million euros.
A Turbulent Past
In 2013, Chișinău International Airport was concessioned to Avia Invest, a company suspected of ties to fugitive oligarch Ilan Șor. The Moldovan authorities subsequently initiated legal proceedings to terminate the contract due to Avia Invest's alleged failure to uphold its contractual investment obligations. This dispute remains unresolved in court.
Uncertain Trajectory
The future of Chișinău International Airport remains shrouded in uncertainty. Avia Invest's legal challenges have the potential to delay or disrupt the new concession process. Nevertheless, the government's commitment to securing a European partner and investing in the airport's modernization suggests a more optimistic outlook for the airport's long-term development.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
