“There was a useful but rather complicated discussion. We believe that this format can be useful for maintaining dialog with the Transnistrian side, and we do not share the idea that it is useless, as it is promoted in certain cases here in Tiraspol The parties have remained on known positions. We promote the process of reintegration of the country on the basis of sovereignty and territorial integrity. Tiraspol continues to promote the status quo,” Chivery said at the press conference.
During the meeting, a verbal altercation arose between the representatives of the sides over what in principle is called what they are involved in: “diplomatic work” or “working meeting”.
“There can’t be diplomatic work between us because diplomatic work is between two states. We have other relations,” Valeriu Chivere said.
The Moldovan side proposed to sign a brief declaration on the resumption of the negotiation process, focusing on a political settlement based on Moldova’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within the internationally recognized borders.
“This was rejected, and we believe that this shows, in principle, Tiraspol’s attitude towards the seriousness of the settlement process,” Valeriu Chivere said.
Human rights, education and environmental issues were also discussed. Chisinau rejected accusations of an economic blockade of the region.
“We also categorically rejected the allegations that Moldova imposes an economic blockade on the region. We announced our intention to continue extending the regulatory framework in the economic field to the whole territory of the country and spoke about the objectives of the Convergence Fund, which is aimed at ensuring the welfare of citizens and is not an extension of the tax regulation for the territory of the country and is aimed at ensuring the welfare of citizens,” Valeriu Chivere said.
On March 26, the Moldovan Parliament adopted in the first reading a draft law on the phased abolition of tax exemptions for imports and supplies of goods and services to the Transnistrian region. The document envisages the creation of a Convergence Fund. Its resources will be used to gradually eliminate tax and legislative differences between the two banks of the Dniester. It will be formed at the expense of taxes on economic entities from the left bank, in particular on goods and services consumed by citizens, and will be used to modernize infrastructure, support the business environment and residents of the region.
Tiraspol does not agree with this initiative. In particular, the representative of the foreign policy department of the region, Vitalie Ignatiev, said: “It is necessary to look for solutions that stimulate the economy, support business and create jobs, and not to take away the last resources from enterprises”.
