Ernest Vardanyan’s release can prevent unwanted aggravation of situation, Marian Lupu

“Ernest Vardanyan was set free following a continuous process of monitoring and mobilizing the efforts aimed at releasing him, including by using diplomatic levers. I welcome this positive step, which is a good example to follow in other cases as well and which can prevent the unwanted aggravation of the situation,” Head of Parliament and Acting President of Moldova Marian Lupu says in a statement, quoted by Info-Prim Neo. The statement says the Moldovan authorities attentively followed the case of journalist Ernest Vardanyan and made concerted effort to release him. His arrest was considered inadmissible from the very beginning. Consistent steps were taken to set him free immediately and unconditionally. His case was regarded as an attempt to intimidate the independent media outlets and nongovernmental organizations and to undermine the Transnistrian conflict settlement talks. Moldovan authorities’ efforts to release Ernest Vardanyan were supported by a number of national and international nongovernmental organizations, which also pleaded for the journalists’ release, invoking the violation of his fundamental rights. Marian Lupu also said that building a state of law and ensuring the functioning of the institutions of a democratic society represent key goals for the Moldovan authorities. The free, responsible and impartial press can contribute to the promotion of democratic principles and values in society. Free press means that the mass media organizations are subject to no pressure. Ernest Vardanyan was pardoned on May 5, by a decree issued by the Transnistrian leader Igor Smirnov.