Sergey Mirinov: Cooperation and dialogue between Chisinau and Tiraspol is the only solution for the Transnistrian issue

The key to the settlement of the Transnistrian conflict is in Chisinau and Tiraspol, stated on Monday the Speaker of Russia's Federation Council, Sergey Mironov, at a press conference following the meeting with Moldovan Speaker Marian Lupu, Info-Prim Neo reports. Mironov said that, despite joint international efforts, the solution to the Transnistrian dispute is on the territory of Moldova. To find a conciliatory way out of the dispute, it is necessary that both parties involved cooperate. The Russian official considers that only by engaging in direct dialogue can a final settlement to the conflict be found. Therefore, says Mironov, the initiative of President Vladimir Voronin to resume the direct dialogue with the authorities in Tiraspol is very welcome. Marian Lupu pointed out that the most important thing for both parties at present is to make the shift from animosity to cooperation. The Republic of Moldova has already taken important steps towards that, and the Transnistrian party is invited to change attitudes and do the same, said Lupu. Asked by reporters whether the settlement of the conflict is possible by the end of the year, Mironov said he didn't like making forecasts for decades-long problems. “We are interested in a workable solution for the dispute and not in a solution that would be scheduled to occur on a given date”, stated Mironov. The official added that Russia appreciates Moldova's effort to confirm its status as a neutral country. Mironov also described the discussion with the Moldovan Speaker as constructive and positive. The range of addressed subjects went beyond politics and economy, covering cultural issues as well. Tomorrow, as part of the Slavic Culture and Writing Days in Moldova, Mironov is to visit the Chisinau-based Slavonic University and the house-museum Pushkin. The Russian official will also meet with Moldovan businessmen and then pay a visit to the autonomous region of Gagauzia.