Moldova government spent 10 million lei on Independence Day

The Moldovan government has confirmed that the festivities marking the 35th anniversary of Independence cost approximately 10 million lei, a record sum for a single day of celebration.

According to government spokesperson Dumitru Ciorici, the final cost of 9.86 million lei represents a reduction of over 2.7 million lei, or roughly 21%, from an initial estimate of 12.6 to 12.7 million lei. Prime Minister Vasile Tofan reportedly intervened to cap the spending below the 10 million lei threshold after reviewing the initial proposal.

The government explained that the event had to be organized on a very short timeline following the inauguration of the new Cabinet on July 22 and a change in leadership at the Ministry of Culture. Due to time constraints, officials stated they utilized available legal instruments rather than standard lengthy procurement procedures. The original, more ambitious plan included 35 columns and multiple video screens to symbolize the years of independence.