Chișinău authorities consider new dialogue format for settling Transnistrian conflict

Chișinău authorities are examining the possibility of a new negotiation format for settling the Transnistrian conflict, given that the 5+2 mechanism is no longer functional. Deputy Prime Minister for Reintegration Valeriu Chiveri made the statement at Radio Moldova.

According to the official, the resumption of this negotiation format would not be possible in the near future.

“The 5+2 format is not functional; everyone is aware of this. Things could change at some point, and this also depends on other partners. Among other things, I cannot imagine that Ukraine would be ready to sit at the table with the Russian Federation, an aggressor state. Also, if we look at certain actions and statements by the Russian Federation, through which it threatens the Republic of Moldova, it is hard for me to believe that this actor, in this format, could be an impartial one and could contribute, in one way or another, to the settlement of this conflict, given its practically open position of support for the regime in Tiraspol. Moreover, over 30 years we have been convinced that Russia has taken a biased stance when we spoke about a possible settlement,” said Chiveri.

The official emphasized that Chișinău authorities will discuss with partners possible alternatives to the 5+2 format.

“For now, we do not have alternatives to it, but this does not mean that we should not analyze the issue. It is necessary to think about an alternative and to discuss this with our partners. In particular, I am referring to the European Union, which could have an active role in this process,” mentioned Chiveri.

Negotiations in the 5+2 format involve the participation of representatives of the parties, mediators, and observers – the Republic of Moldova, the Transnistrian region, the OSCE, the Russian Federation, Ukraine, the United States of America, and the European Union. This format aims to develop principles for a comprehensive settlement, based on the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.

Currently, the dialogue between Chișinău and Tiraspol takes place in the 1+1 format and within working groups. The most recent meeting in this format took place on April 16 of this year in Tiraspol. The agenda of the discussions included topics related to the creation of the Convergence Fund, freedom of movement, human rights, and the fields of education and environment.