Angela Merkel's visit is a signal of political support, Marian Lupu

The upcoming visit of German Chancellor Angela Merkel to Chisinau is a signal of political support for Moldova's European integration agenda, stated Parliament Speaker Marian Lupu at a meeting with reporters and bloggers. “We haven't quite been spoiled with high-level visits, especially from countries that play a fundamental role in the EU construction, and this visit confirms, once again, the EU's support for our European aspirations and European reform efforts”, said the Speaker. Marian Lupu dismissed speculations and reports that Angela Merkel is coming to discuss Moldova's federalization. “Mrs. Merkel is not coming with any deals or proposals of federalization. Moreover, we were assured by our colleagues participating in these meetings, in particular the colleagues participating in the 5+2 negotiations, that the idea of federalization has never been broached, neither in theory nor at the level of documents”, said Marian Lupu. In Lupu's opinion, the federalization of our country would be a step backwards. “Considering that the Republic of Moldova is in its early stages of development as a state, an ongoing process of consolidation, its federalization would be a step backwards that would enervate this construction which is not yet completely shaped as a Moldovan, European nation as well as in terms of effective democratic institutions”, declared Lupu, adding that the best solution would be a broad autonomy for Transnistria within the existing international framework. Angela Merkel is expected in Chisinau at an unspecified date until the end of the summer.