The parties approved military observers from Ukraine and Russia who arrived in Pridnestrovie as part of rotation. The commission also heard and took into consideration the reports of the Joint Military Command (JMC) on the situation in the Security Zone (SZ).
«The commission has managed to overcome certain disagreement. We have discussed the issues relating to the rotation of Ukraine's military observers who assumed their responsibilities in the Security Zone. We have also approved Russia’s military observer and assessed the situation in the Security Zone. We have heard and noted six reports made by the JMC. Therefore it may well be argued that the situation in the SZ has remained stable and under control of the Joint Peacekeeping Forces (JPF)," said Pridnestrovie's JCC co-chair, Oleg Belyakov, in an interview with journalists.
When considering the main agenda, the delegations discussed a JPF plan of basic measures. It should be noted that the approval of this document has been blocked by Moldova's delegation for over six months.
«Pridnestrovie is still concerned that the JPF plan of basic measures has not been approved. We understand clearly well that peacekeeping forces are joint only when they are under joint control and pursue common goals. It is these goals that are stipulated in the JPF plan of basic measures. If someone refuses to sign this plan, we ask: 'Why is it necessary?» underscored Oleg Belyakov.
The parties continued discussing issues relating to the freedom of movement in the Security Zone. The interpretation of this notion is the key aspect in the negotiations.
«Moldova believes this applies to law enforcement posts in the Security Zone. Proceeding from the 1992 Agreement, the definition of this term is broader. The document stipulates that the parties take the responsibility to avoid creating blockades and obstacles to the free circulation of people, goods and services. Today more than 200 criminal charges have been brought against Pridnestrovie's citizens. Naturally, this impedes free movement in the Security Zone. Restrictions imposed by Moldova on our vehicles and businesses affect our citizens residing in the Security Zone," concluded Oleg Belyakov.
The head of the Pridnestrovian delegation said the parties agreed to celebrate together the anniversary of the peacekeepers' introduction into the conflict area, which takes place on 30 July in Bendery.
