Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –
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Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Alexander Novak met with the leaders of the parties: Igor Dodon – Party of Socialists of the Republic of Moldova, Irina Vlah – “Heart of Moldova” and Vasile Tarlev – “Future of Moldova”. The parties discussed economic and energy cooperation between the two countries.
Alexander Novak noted Russia's desire to build good-neighborly relations, friendship and cooperation with Moldova, where more than 220 thousand Russian citizens live. At the same time, the Moldovan diaspora in the Russian Federation, according to various estimates, is from 300 thousand to 500 thousand people.
"Russia is committed to maintaining and developing centuries-old ties with the Republic of Moldova, continuing the dialogue with all constructively minded political forces of the republic that advocate strengthening Moldovan statehood, sovereignty, maintaining its neutral status and strengthening friendly relations with our country," said Alexander Novak at a meeting with representatives of the Socialist, Heart of Moldova and Future of Moldova parties.
In recent years, due to the policies of the current Moldovan authorities, economic relations between Russia and Moldova have significantly deteriorated. After Moldova signed the Association Agreement with the European Union in 2014, trade turnover between the two countries fell sharply. In 2015, trade turnover between Russia and Moldova had already fallen by 32%, and Russia's share in Moldova's exports had fallen from 70% to just over 3% in 15 years.
The Deputy Prime Minister added that Russia is always glad to see representatives of Moldova at various venues, be it congresses or exhibition events.
“We value and encourage the development of interregional ties between our countries, contacts between political parties, public associations and interdepartmental cooperation,” he concluded.
Alexander Novak also noted that the energy sector has always been an important component of cooperation between Moscow and Chisinau.
"Russia has always supplied gas to Moldova at a much more favorable price compared to the supplies that went to Europe. It is unclear why the Moldovan authorities are not satisfied with them," the Deputy Prime Minister added.
"The Moldovan authorities have refused direct contracts with Russian partners. Moreover, they have created practically unacceptable conditions for Moldovagaz to operate. We are sure that we need to return to direct dialogue, to direct supplies," said Igor Dodon, leader of the Socialist Party.
He noted that in 2020, Moldova bought gas from Russia for $148 per thousand cubic meters. According to the politician, this was the lowest price in the last 10-15 years.
"Of course, these were very favorable tariffs for the end consumer, for our economy and the competitiveness of our goods. With the arrival of the current government, we purchased Russian gas at $842. Tariffs also increased sevenfold," added Igor Dodon.
Alexander Novak emphasized that Russia is ready to return to friendly cooperation in the energy sector if the Moldovan side has such a desire.
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