Head of state takes part in extended session of Republican Union of Pridnestrovie's Defenders

The current political, social and economic situation in the republic was discussed at the session

Yevgeniy Shevchuk recalled two years' results of the state budget formation and the volume of the investment in education and healthcare. The influence of Ukraine's events on the domestic situation was also referred to at the session, the head of state's press service reports.

"The positive trend in business activity acquired in the past two years has been decreasing. It is not only Ukraine's events influencing on the situation, but also global issues," noted the President. "Unfortunately, only a few Pridnestrovian enterprises have been re-equipped during 24 years of independence, the rest have been making use of the Soviet technologies. It must be admitted that not all of our businesses are competitive in the foreign markets. The risks of financial effects at such enterprises rest with nobody but businessmen themselves," underscored the President.

Yevgeniy Shevchuk also focused on supporting the stable exchange rate of the national currency. "From the economic point of view, it is easier to recover if there is a stable national currency. Besides, if we enter a devaluation circle, the situation may aggravate. The wages are not high in Pridnestrovie, but allowing a financial chaos caused by devaluation is even a heavier problem in this situation," the head of state noted.

Yevgeniy Shevchuk informed the Defenders' Union about the measures, taken by the republican leadership, aimed at stabilizing the situation and preventing negative impacts. "We must get reorganized in a very short time, which is almost impossible without external assistance," underscored the President, adding, "The situation is not hopeless. We have the potential."

The Association Agreement signed between Moldova and the EU was also touched upon at the session. "Our opportunities are inferior to the risks and threats this agreement will bring about. In this part, our potential is limited," the head of state pointed out. According to him, the situation will depend on further mutually agreed and coordinated actions.

During the meeting Yevgeniy Shevchuk also highlighted the issues related to the negotiation process. In particular, the head of state recalled that Moldova had eliminated a number of economic barriers for Pridnestrovie's businesses. It concerns, specifically, the elimination of environmental fees and import and export customs taxes imposed on Pridnestrovian economic agents.

The Defenders' Union members asked the President a number of questions concerning their organization's activities. "Despite all the problems the Republican leadership faces, the defenders have always been the support for the PMR's statehood. Therefore, we’ll keep on consulting with you and exchanging  views on the most important issues," concluded Yevgeniy Shevchuk.