On the margins an informal CIS summit in Moscow, Moldovan President Igor Dodon has met his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. As President Dodon later wrote on his FB account, he noted during the meeting that despite the anti-Russian rhetoric and actions from the Moldovan government and parliamentary majority, the relationship with Russia has been improving.

Igor Dodon said he thanked Vladimir Putin for the support offered to Moldova over this year. “2018 is of crucial importance. Russia is due to hold presidential elections. In Moldova, too, a very important event will occur – legislative elections, which will determine the future course of our country’s development. I have expressed my hope that in 2018 we will be able to achieve a higher level of cooperation, avoiding the tensions that characterized the relationship between our countries in 2017”, wrote Igor Dodon.

In a separate post, Igor Dodon wrote that he had discussions with a number of other CIS presidents. “2018 is extremely important for our countries and for the entire Commonwealth. The common challenges that we face can be overcome easier through concerted efforts”.

Igor Dodon also said he extended his New Year wishes to the Commonwealth and the member countries, wishing them to successfully overcome all the crisis situations, and enjoy overall growth and prosperity.