Moldova inaugurates new gas pipeline, will get gas from Romania to lessen dependence on Russia

A new pipeline has been opened that will pump gas from Romania to Moldova in an attempt to reduce the former Soviet republic's dependence on Russian energy.

The prime ministers of the two countries inaugurated the pipeline Wednesday. Moldova's Iurie Leanca said it means "we can be sure that nobody can create problems for us or threaten us."

The pipeline, however, won't be enough for full independence. Moldova is totally reliant on Russian gas coming through Ukraine and has had cutoffs in the past. The 43-kilometer (28-mile) pipeline will provide only five percent of its gas needs.

Moldova is seeking funds to build the pipeline through to the capital and get all its gas from Romania. The government signed a trade agreement with the European Union in June, angering Russia.