Transformation of peacekeeping mission will not be discussed at upcoming 5+2 talks

The transformation of the peacekeeping mission in Transnistria will not be in the agenda of the Transnistrian conflict settlement talks in the 5+2 format that are to take place later this month. The subject will be discussed in a broader and much complex perspective, Deputy Prime Minister for Reintegration Eugen Karpov has told Info-Prim Neo. “It won’t be a discussion that would help resolve the problem. The issue is a political one. We must see how the current peacekeeping mission was created. It was set up under an agreement signed by Moldova and Russia. The mission should be probably transformed in accordance with a new agreement between the two countries,” said the Deputy Prime Minister. He also said that the states that are taking part in the talks – the U.S. and Ukraine, as well as the EU and OSCE expressed interest in the discussions on the modification of the peacekeeping mission. “We enjoy international support for the discussions to start, but we must reach a consensus with Russia so that we make progress and achieve the expected result. We must pave the way for a political decision. When this decision is taken, we will discuss it at official consultations in the 5+2 format. Today the way is not yet paved,” stated Eugen Karpov. The agenda of the talks in the 5+2 format set for the end of February will include the formulation of a document on the principles of the negotiation process. The Tiraspol press reported that the Transnistrian leader Yevgeny Shevchuk is against discussing the modification of the format of the peacekeeping mission at the upcoming talks. “The peacekeeping mission is the basic element of security. We plead for keeping this mission. Any change must be made with the consent of both of the sides,” said Shevchuk. The talks will take place in Ireland’s Dublin on February 28-29. The transformation of the military peacekeeping mission that is under the aegis of Russia into an internationally-mandated civil one is a priority for the Moldovan authorities in the Transnistrian conflict settlement process.