Decision to reopen talks in “5+2” format was taken in a friendly atmosphere, OSCE representative

The Special Representative of the OSCE Chairman-in-Office for Protracted Conflicts Giedrius Čekuolis said he remained impressed by the atmosphere in which the consultations in the “5+2” format were held in Moscow, where it was decided to resume the official talks. Giedrius Čekuolis has told Info-Prim Neo that the dialogue moved to a very important stage for both of the sides, which opens new prospects. “We welcome this decision as all the questions about the Transnistrian region are of a major importance for us. We took a step in the right direction because this matter was raised again to a responsible level. The decision taken implies more insistent work and a dialogue at official level,” said Giedrius Čekuolis. He also said that the official talks are different from the unofficial talks because they imply greater responsibility and require discussing all the problems. “There are not only working groups dealing with different areas. Political decisions will be taken on the Transnistrian region,” explained the OSCE representative. The Lithuanian official also said that the sides had a good dialogue in Moscow. “How many years have been these discussions held under the table, even if these are important questions for both banks of the Nistru? It’s time to put the hands on the table and start a new type of dialogue! If the old consultations were continued, no prospects would have existed. The only way out of the situation is to hold official talks in the “5+2” format,” he stated. “Both of the sides – Chisinau and Tiraspol – are the best experts in their problems. The consultations are hard, but new prospects will open. The EU and the OSCE will support the sides financially and with experts,” said Giedrius Čekuolis. The decision to renew the official talks in the “5+2” format was taken in the informal consultations held in Moscow in September 22.