Damage to Moldova's parliament estimated at $40 mln

CHISINAU, April 9 (RIA Novosti) - Damage to the parliament building in Moldova following Tuesday's riots in Chisinau has been estimated at $40 million, the parliamentary speaker said on Thursday.

Marian Lupu said repairs to the building would cost $30 million and replacing damaged furniture and looted equipment would require a further $10 million.

President Vladimir Voronin said the reconstruction of the building will be financed using funds allocated for educational institutions where the young people who participated in the riots study.

He said the nearby presidential offices would also need extensive repairs.

Protests against the ruling Communist Party's victory in Sunday's elections turned violent on Tuesday, with some 10,000 rioters seizing control of the presidential office and parliament building. Some 170 police officers and more than 100 civilians were injured in the clashes.

The Moldovan president has accused Romania of inciting the violence in the capital, and on Wednesday the Moldovan government approved the introduction of a visa regime with Romania, and also expelled the country's ambassador.

The capital was reportedly quiet during the night, with no demonstrations or violence.