Vlad Plahotniuc thanks PACE for extending assistance for Moldova

First Deputy Speaker Vlad Plahotniuc stressed the importance of the Action Plan “Future Council of Europe Cooperation and Assistance Activities for Moldova” for 2010-2011 and thanked the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) for its decision to extend it, Info-Prim Neo reports, quoting a communiqué from the Parliament’s press office. Related statements were made in a working lunch that involved Vlad Plahotniuc and the PACE rapporteurs Lise Christoffersen and Piotr Wach, who have been in Moldova on a visit during November 28 and December 1. The officials discussed the functioning of the democratic institutions, the election of the President, the progress made in implementing reforms and other issues. The First Deputy Head of Parliament said the Moldovan authorities are grateful for the PACE’s interest in the developments in Moldova and for its involvement in identifying a solution to the constitutional crisis. He approved of the Council of Europe’s contribution to promoting the democratic reforms, the human rights and the rule of law in Moldova. The rapporteurs raised the issue of antidiscrimination. Vlad Plahotniuc said the antidiscrimination law should be adopted by excluding the elements that affect the national traditions. Lise Christoffersen gave as example her country Norway, where there are separate laws for the protection of different groups that can become victims of discrimination. Piotr Wach said it is very important for Moldova to have will and resources to implement the undertaken reforms. Vlad Plahotniuc assured the PACE representatives that Moldova will take into account the expertise and recommendations for overcoming the political crisis and fulfilling the commitments made to the Council of Europe.