Discussions on Transnistrian issue must center on matters of principle, Leanca

A viable solution to the Transnistrian conflict must be based on the observance of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Moldova, by identifying a special legal status for the Transnistrian region, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration Iurie Leanca said in a speech delivered at the 19th Meeting of the OSCE Ministerial Council held in Dublin, Info-Prim Neo reports. According to a communiqué from the Foreign Ministry, Iurie Leanca reiterated the Moldovan authorities’ commitment to promote the confidence building measures, remove the barriers hindering the free movement of persons, goods and services, improve the situation as regards the human rights protection and others. As to the Transnistrian conflict settlement talks in the 5+2 format, the minister said the discussions should be redirected from technical aspects to matters of principle, stressing the importance of promoting a common approach and coordinated actions by the international partners involved in the talks. Speaking about the political-military aspects, Iurie Leanca said that discussions should be initiated on the transformation of the current peacekeeping mission into a civilly-mandated multinational mission that will meet the real necessities on the spot. He reiterated the necessity of finishing the withdrawal of Russia’s army and munitions from Moldova’s territory in accordance with the international commitments.