Leanca, Corlatean discuss “5+2” talks in Bucharest

Romania considers that it is essential to ensure the continuity of the Transnistrian conflict settlement process in the “5+2” format and to make progress in the talks so as to identify a sustainable solution that would respect Moldova’s sovereignty and integrity. Romania’s position was stated by Foreign Minister Titus Corlatean in a meeting with his Moldovan counterpart Iurie Leanca in Bucharest on Friday, Info-Prim Neo reports. According to a communiqué from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Romania, the discussions between the two ministers centered on the stages of the bilateral cooperation and formulation of the working program for 2013. The ministers examined the bilateral projects under implementation, with emphasis on energy cooperation and the technical and financial assistance provided by Romania to Moldova. It was agreed to coordinate efforts so as to implement the strategic energy interconnection projects within the set terms, mainly the Iasi-Ungheni gas pipe. Titus Corlatean underlined the important role played by Parliament in strengthening the bilateral relations and supporting Moldova’s European aspirations. “We consider that Moldova is at the pre-accession stage. Our joint project of strategic importance is to support the European path of Chisinau,” he stated. The Romanian side confirmed its full support for achieving Moldova’s strategic objectives in the relations with the European Union. As to the Eastern Partnership Summit that will take place in Vilnius in November 2013, Romania is for signing the Association Agreement between Moldova and Romania so that Moldova has clear European prospects. The ministers discussed possibilities of providing technical support to Moldova for successfully implementing the second stage of the EU-Moldova Visa Liberalization Plan.