Tiraspol rejects possible participation of Romania in talks on Transnistrian conflict

The official responsible with foreign affairs of the Tiraspol authorities, Vladimir Yastrebchak, opposes Romania participating in the talks on the Transnistrian settlement, RIA Novosti reports, quoted by Info-Prim Neo. "Romania could contribute to the settlement through other mechanisms, especially through its bilateral contacts with Moldova," Yastrebchak said. Then he added: "All realize very well the complications that may arise in case Romania participates in the negotiations. No doubt, the Romanian diplomacy could intensify its efforts on the European plane." At the same time, Tiraspol is ready to consider any initiative and to accept any contribution in the settlement process, Vladimir Yastrebchak said. Romanian Foreign Minister Cristian Diaconescu has recently stated Romania should get involved directly in the talks on Transnistria, and that the 5+2 format (Russia, Ukraine, OSCE, EU, USA, Moldova and Transnistria) have yielded no result. Romanian president Traian Basescu shares the opinion, RIA Novosti reports. He considers it necessary to modify the negotiating format on Transnistria and that Bucharest should participate in them.