If the Republic of Moldova withdraws from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), the prices of gas and electrical energy will grow, jurist Sergey Mishin stated in the program “Key issue” on NTV Moldova channel, IPN reports.

According to him, during 26 years the Republic of Moldova has enjoyed economic benefits from the status of member of the CIS, such as preferential customs duties on different goods, cheaper gas than in other European states, free movement among the member states of the CIS. If Moldova withdraws from the CIS, the gas and electric power prices will grow.

The journalist considers the Liberal leader Mihai Ghimpu’s statement that Moldova should withdraw from the CIS is a populist move before the parliamentary elections. “I don’t think that the Democrats will accept this initiative.  If they do, I think this initiative will not garner sufficient support in Parliament,” stated Sergey Misin.

Sergiu Ostaf, director of the Resource Center for Human Rights, said that before taking such an important step as withdrawing from the CIS, there should be thoroughly analyzed each component. “I think all the arguments should be examined. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs should deal with this and should assess the economic component, the free movement and the extent to which this agreement offers special advantages to Russia in particular,” he stated.

On January 19, the Liberal Party proposed that Moldova should withdraw from the CIS. The Liberals drafted a bill to this effect and called on the Democratic Party to support this so as to show the people that the government in Chisinau really wants the country to join the EU.