The negotiators to the Transnistrian conflict settlement on behalf of Chisinau asked to eliminate the discriminatory approach to the residents of the right side of the Nistru, which consists in the so-called migration cards and the exaggerated checks performed on the administrative line at Transnistrian checkpoints, but could not come to terms with Tiraspol on the issue, Deputy Prime Minister for Reintegration Gheorghe Balan stated in an interview for Radio Free Europe, quoted by IPN.
The official said that in the meeting with the Transnistrian political representative earlier this week, they also discussed the freedom of movement, ensuring of access to the region, the possibility for the population to move freely on the administrative line and through the so-called Transnistrian posts. “As regards the freedom of movement, I think this subject is excessively politicized by Tiraspol. This is perceived as a risk. Consequently, there is no openness,” said Gheorghe Balan.
The official also said that they discussed the problem of the thousands of farmers from Dubasari district who do not have access to their farmland located beyond the Rybnitsa-Tiraspol road. “We suggested returning to the mechanism of 2006, which worked until 2013. Then, the farmers had unhampered access to their farmland and could cultivate it. In parallel, we can try and identify solutions to the problems existing in this field. Unfortunately, the Transnistrian side didn’t show readiness to have a dialogue on this issue,” stated the Deputy Prime Minister.
Speaking about the Berlin protocol signed within the negotiation format, Gheorghe Balan said this protocol does not specify exactly how the problems will be solved. “This protocol should not be yet regarded as negative towards Chisinau,” he said.
According to the official, any solution that can be identified and promoted will be in the interests of the Moldovan population and in accordance with the national legislation and international norms. The continuation of discussions on subjects that were included in this protocol does not impinge on Moldova’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
