Transnistrian settlement on agenda of foreign affairs minister’s meeting with new Head of OSCE Mission to Moldova

Deputy Prime Minister, Foreign Affairs Minister Mihai Popsoi today had a meeting  with new Head of the OSCE Mission to Moldova Christopher W. Smith. The officials discussed the situation in the Transnistrian region, security developments, and the prospects of the settlement process.

According to the Foreign Affairs Ministry (MAE), Mihai Popsoi congratulated Christopher W. Smith on assuming his mandate and wished him success in carrying it out. The Moldovan diplomacy head expressed the authorities’ openness to close cooperation with the OSCE Mission.

During the meeting, the minister reiterated Moldova’s firm commitment to identifying a peaceful and lasting solution in the Transnistrian settlement process, through dialogue and diplomatic means, with full respect for the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.

The officials also addressed Moldova’s path towards accession to the European Union, as well as the consequences of the Russian Federation’s war of aggression against Ukraine on the country.

Mihai Popsoi emphasized that advancing the Transnistrian settlement process must contribute to strengthening peace and stability, in parallel with achieving Moldova’s European integration objectives.

“We count on your experience and involvement and on the role of the OSCE Mission in supporting efforts for the peaceful reintegration of the country. Our goal is to identify a lasting solution and achieve the reintegration of the country, which will bring benefits to all citizens of Moldova,” stated Mihai Popsoi.

At the same time, the discussions highlighted the contribution of the OSCE Mission to promoting human rights, strengthening the rule of law and supporting civil society, as well as increasing confidence between the two banks of the Dniester River.

For his part, Christopher W. Smith expressed readiness for close cooperation and constant dialogue with the authorities of Moldova, in order to fully capitalize on the mandate and expertise of the OSCE Mission.