Unlike last year, Romanian PM and President agree on European Council attendance, plan to push shale gas exploitation topic

Attendance of the European Council, which last year caused a row between the Romanian President and the Prime Minister, now seems to be a clear deal between the two, as Romanian president Traian Basescu recently announced the PM will represent Romania this year. Victor Ponta (in picture) will this attend the European Council meeting on May 22, but the PM wanted to underline this was not a gift made by the president. “I made an official request to the president to attend, and he agreed,” said the PM. He reminded of the heavy topics on the list of discussions at the council – tax evasion, renewable and unconventional energy. The president explained the reason for his OK: “Firstly I think he can support Romania's point of view. And, when talking about energy, considering he agreed with exploring for and exploiting shale gas, I think this should be supported in Brussels, during the Council discussions.” The president however said he could have argued the topics himself, because he also agrees with exploiting shale gas, as it means energy independence and investments. “I am not unconditionally charitable with anyone, as you well know. It is a sign of trust,” the president told the media when asked about his gesture. editor@romania-insider.com