Small steps policy in Transnistrian settlement may lead to Moldova’s federalization, FPA

Chisinau and Tiraspol are continuing to be on different sides of the same coin regarding the finalization of the negotiation process on the Transnistrian conflict settlement, and the 'small steps' policy may contribute to the strengthening of the unrecognized regime, thus, to the gradual federalization of Moldova, stated Victor Chirila, director of the Foreign Policy Association (FPA), in a Press Club meeting. “The 'small steps' policy implies the resolution of some socioeconomic issues that negatively affect citizens on both sides of the Nistru. The resolution of these problems also implies the conclusion of some settlements, under the form of so-called protocol decisions. But, obviously, under these protocol decisions, both parties take on some responsibilities. Actually, we are dealing with the delimitation of some responsibilities and obligations for the resolution of the aforementioned issues in different sectors”, said Victor Chirila. In the absence of a common strategic goal between Chisinau and Tiraspol, such decisions may lead to the creation of a new political and legal situation between the two banks. “We may end up with distributing attributions over several sectors amongst Tiraspol and Chisinau, and all there will be left to do is build a roof over the future common state, which may mold into a federal state”, said the FPA director. Thus, Victor Chirila said that, in order to avoid such an undesired development for Chisinau, it is important that socioeconomic problems be solved parallel to the discussion of political problems, which should have the strategic goal that Moldova had set, namely the reintegration of the Transnistrian region as a component part of the Republic of Moldova. The FPA Press Club meeting takes place with the support of the German Friedrich Ebert Foundation.