Eugen Carpov: An important change has occurred in Transnistria

The authorities in Chisinau are optimistic that after the recent replacement of the leader in Transnistria the direct dialogue between Chisinau and Tiraspol, as well as within the framework of the 5+2 negotiation format, will intensify, Moldova's Reintegration Deputy Prime Minister Eugen Carpov told a news conference on Tuesday, Info-Prim Neo reports. “Obviously a very important change has occurred. First and foremost, an era ended when all the processes were controlled by Igor Smirnov, who showed little flexibility and constructivism”, stated Eugen Carpov. He stressed that Moldova didn't recognize the electoral processes taking place in the Transnistrian region, but would engage in political dialogue with whoever represented the region. Eugen Carpov further noted that the first statements of the freshly elected Transnistrian leader Yevgeny Shevchuk inspired some optimism that discussions could advance to another level. Concerning the Transnistrian settlement processes, Eugen Carpov noted several positive developments, in particular the decision to resume formal 5+2 negotiations. He also mentioned problems such as instability in the security zone, arrests of Moldovan citizens and human rights violations on the left side of the Nistru. Eugen Carpov announced that the Reintegration Bureau was finalizing a strategy for the development of the settlements located in the Security Zone in the years 2012-2015. Eugen Carpov also reiterated Moldova's position concerning the withdrawal without delay of Russian ammunition and troops from the region and the replacement of the current peacekeeping operation with an internationally-mandate civil mission.