U.S. will support Moldova in overcoming drought consequences

U.S. is ready to support Moldova in overcoming the consequences of this summer’s drought in the area. The announcement was made by David Kramer, U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, and Michael Kirby, U.S. Ambassador to Moldova at a meeting with Moldovan key officials. According to the Government, during the discussions with PM Vasile Tarlev, particular attention was given to the Transnistria settlement. David Kramer reiterated U.S. strong position in supporting the conflict resolution. He also pleaded for an urgent resumption of the “5+2” negotiations, substitution of the current peace-keeping force in the Security Zone with an international team and for Russia to honour its commitments of the Istanbul OSCE summit. The Moldovan PM appreciated the cooperation with the U.S. in implementing a number of socio-economic projects, as well as including Moldova in the U.S. Millennium Challenge Programme. He assured that Moldova will develop in reasonable time proposals for a full assistance, which will be submitted for approval to the Millennium Challenge Corporation. The two American officials also had a meeting with President Vladimir Voronin. According to the presidential press service, they had a discussion on various topics that relate to the current stage of the bilateral relations. Here as well, the discussion touched upon the Transnistrian conflict resolution and the possibility of resuming the talks. The President reiterated the Moldovan interest in the resumption of the negotiations, expressing his hope that within the “5+2” format an acceptable model of conflict resolution will be identified.