The priority for the Swedish OSCE Chairpersonship is to protect European order and security and also all the agreed principles. This implies states’ rights to territorial integrity and to independently decide the security policy, OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Swedish Minister for Foreign Affairs Ann Linde stated at the end of her visit to the Republic of Moldova. She noted she is ready to provide the necessary political support so as to make progress in the Transnistrian settlement process, IPN reports.

“The OSCE Mission to Moldova remains vital in bringing the Transnistrian settlement process to an end. We will all contribute to bringing that solution. During the visit, I was encouraged by the clear message of support for this process. Particular challenges continue to exist and it is important to take small steps to remain on the same line,” noted the Swedish Minister for Foreign Affairs.

Ann Linde said the discussions she had centered on concrete measures to build confidence between the sides and to advance the settlement process at all stages. “We are to facilitate the settlement process in accordance with the principles of independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Moldova, within the internationally recognized borders, with a special status for Transnistria,” stated the official.

Ann Linde also said that the OSCE Chairpersonship continues to support the meetings in the 5+2 format, the respect for the human rights and free movement as these are extremely important for improving the local living conditions and for ensuring communication between both of the sides of the Nistru.

While in Moldova, the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office had meetings with President Maia Sandu and Acting Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration Aureliu Ciocoi. In Bender, she met with Transdniestrian leader Vadim Krasnoselsky and Chief Negotiator Vitaly Ignatiev.