The Moldovan broadcaster TRM is one of the poorest participating in the Eurovision Song Contest, something which nearly caused the country to pull out of the 2007 edition held in Helsinki. In the end, however, a compromise was reached stating that Moldova would participate as long as its representative paid the fees connected with the contest themselves.

However, another part of the agreement was that should Moldova enter the Top 10 in Finland, TRM would refund the participants' expenses – something which didindeed happenafter Natalia Barbu placed 10th with Fight.

This means that TRM did not actually save any money and since their financial situation has not improved in the meantimethe same doubts about their participation in 2008 remainthe same as last year. TRM will considertheir budget before making a final decision on participation in Belgrade in October of this year.

As Natalia Barbu finished Top 10 in 2007, Moldova is one of the countries prequalified to the 2008 final by right. The next in line for prequalification, should they withdraw, is Bosnia & Herzegovina, who finished 11th.

Moldova has participated three times to date, finishing in the Top 10 on two occasions so far. ESCtoday.com will keep you updated on events in Moldova as they unfold!