The Foreign Ministry hosted the meeting of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the PMR Vitaly Ignatiev with the Head of the OSCE Mission to Moldova Klaus Neukirch.
During the meeting, the parties held a thorough discussion with a significant emphasis on human rights issues. In particular, special attention was paid to such issues as Vehicle Registration Office operation in Tiraspol and Rybnitsa and the topic of driving licenses. At the same time, was noted a good progress within Pridnestrovian side obligations fulfillment under the agreements on educational institutions functioning in Pridnestrovie with teaching on Latin script and on land use in the Dubossary District (PMR).
As a follow-up to the conversation, the Pridnestrovian side expressed in favor of holding the next 5 + 2 format meeting without preconditions.
Vitaly Ignatiev expressed gratitude to the OSCE for the mediation efforts made and for the number of projects implemented as part of the negotiation process as well. The Minister noted inter alia, the export of harmful pesticides from the territory of Pridnestrovie that the organization financially supported. In this context, the Head of the Foreign Ministry advocated for such a cooperation continuation in an open and constructive manner.
During the discussion, took place an extremely frank exchange of views on the current dialogue atmosphere, on the reasons for its stagnation, on the existing opportunities to stabilize the situation and on the search for further ways to move forward.
“The current situation in the negotiation process between Pridnestrovie and Moldova leaves much to be desired. We see certain OSCE efforts to ensure that the dialogue continues; for our part, we are also open to interaction with all participants in the negotiations, including the Moldovan side. I reaffirm our commitment to holding a meeting in the 5 + 2 format and solving the problems associated with the Berlin + package. However, we will not play along with Chisinau if it tries breaking the negotiation process, turning the dialogue into scandals, causing mutual accusations and street fights. We are not going to degrade together with our Moldovan colleagues and destroy the negotiating structure,” the Minister said.
Ending the meeting, the diplomats agreed to continue regular working communication in all relevant areas of cooperation.
