Although the new minister, Attila Korodi, who held this office before, in the 2007-2008 period, is known as an opponent of the Rosia Montana project, he was rather cautious in his statements at the swearing-in ceremony. The Canadian company that was awarded the concession contract of the Rosia Montana gold reserve, is yet to receive the approval of the Environment Ministry, amidst massive criticism from environmental groups. The recent negotiations over the exploitation of the copper ore in Rosia Poieni have also failed.

The winner of the tender, another Canadian company, has not deposited the environment investment guarantee requested by the Romanian state. Speaking at the investiture ceremony, Romanian president Traian Basescu voiced hope that the new Environment Minister will make his decision as soon as possible with regard to the two projects for the exploitation of natural reserves because, he said, the lack of decision is the worst solution in such cases.

The head of state drew attention to the fact that Romania no longer had resources to create new jobs, unless it turned towards the responsible resumption of exploitation activities, whether they involve gold, copper or shale gas. Romania, he said, doesn’t have the billion of euros required to import the necessary technology to exploit these resources while properly protecting the environment. This is why, he argues, striking a partnership with foreign companies is the only solution. Basescu also called on the government to revise the entire royalties system in the field of natural resources in Romania.