US Ambassador: Parliament passed Offshore Law by disregarding principles of transparency and negotiation

Anca Alexe 23/07/2018 | 07:52

The US Ambassador to Romania, Hans Klemm, has directed criticism at the way Parliament adopted the Offshore Law, which regulates the exploitation of gas in the Black Sea, saying that all principles of transparency and negotiation have been disregarded.

Klemm said that he has urged the Romanian government to be predictable in its economic policies and transparent about moves that could affect investors.

On the Offshore Law, which is still up for approval by president Klaus Iohannis, Klemm said that “this law was first put up for a vote on Monday at 3 pm and adopted by 10 pm.”

Oil companies have also expressed concern about the new offshore law, saying that it may discourage investors in the Black Sea.

Asked whether democratic forces should intervene in the issue of justice laws in NATO or EU member states, the US ambassador responded: “Romania is trying to strengthen its democratic institutions, including an independent judiciary. At various times we have been worried, and we tried both privately and publicly to make our concerns known. Recently, we talked about cybersecurity, terrorism and organised crime.”

Klemm also referred to American investors, who are present in each economic sector in Romania: “Improvements can always be made. I’ve always urged the government to be much more predictable in terms of the economy and taxes and be more stable and transparent as well as consult with the business community.”