Canada is an important partner in developing and modernizing Moldova’s economy and is a friend and supporter of the country’s European aspirations, Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs John Baird said in a news conference given in Chisinau after a meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Natalia Gherman, IPN reports.
The officials discussed possibilities of intensifying the bilateral relations, opening a Canadian embassy in Chisinau and of attracting investments to the Moldovan economy.
John Baird noted the progress made by Moldova over the last four years, saying that Canada supports Moldova’s territorial integrity. As to the developments in Ukraine, the official said the Canadian authorities are concerned abut them and called on Russia to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of this country. “It seems that Russia decided to become the adversary of the western world. Canada transmits a powerful message to Moldova – that you have good friends in the West,” said the Canadian official, adding that the people decide the path they want to follow, while the other countries must respect this decision.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration Natalia Gherman said that the talks over the bilateral agreement on investment protection are over and the accord will be signed soon. “We conferred on the attraction of Canadian investments to Moldova’s economy. We welcome and expect this thing in Moldova,” she stated.
John Baird also had a meeting with Prime Minister Iurie Leanca. The Premier spoke about the economic growth of almost 9% obtained last year and the measures taken to attract investors and to increase Moldova’s exports. In the meeting with Head of Parliament Igor Corman, the officials exchanged opinions on how to strength the relations between the two states, including cooperation at parliamentary level. Referring to the developments in the region, the Speaker said that Moldova pleads for the territorial integrity of Ukraine and for the stabilization of the situation in the neighboring country.
John Baird is the first Foreign Minister of Canada who paid a visit to Chisinau.
