Moment of Silence: Romania disqualified from Eurovision

BUCHAREST, Romania -- Romania's "Moment of Silence" won't be heard at the Eurovision Song Contest because the national broadcaster owes millions to the European Broadcasting Union.

The EBU, which organizes the kitschy but popular competition, said Friday Romania owed $16.3 million.

The Romanian finance ministry summoned managers at the TVR public television for a meeting Friday afternoon.

Romania was to be represented by a song called a "Moment of Silence," performed by singer and songwriter Ovidiu Anton.

The TVR channel will also lose access to other EBU member services including Eurovision News and Sports News Exchanges, the right to broadcast some sporting events, legal, technical and research expertise and lobbying services.

This year's contest is being staged in Malta, with finals on May 14.

Romania has never won in 17 tries.