Meeting between Alexander Novak and party leaders: Igor Dodon, Party of Socialists of the Republic of Moldova; Irina Vlah, Heart of Moldova; and Vasile Tarlev, Future of Moldova
Meeting between Alexander Novak and party leaders: Igor Dodon, Party of Socialists of the Republic of Moldova; Irina Vlah, Heart of Moldova; and Vasile Tarlev, Future of Moldova
Meeting between Alexander Novak and party leaders: Igor Dodon, Party of Socialists of the Republic of Moldova; Irina Vlah, Heart of Moldova; and Vasile Tarlev, Future of Moldova
Meeting between Alexander Novak and party leaders: Igor Dodon, Party of Socialists of the Republic of Moldova; Irina Vlah, Heart of Moldova; and Vasile Tarlev, Future of Moldova
Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Alexander Novak convened with the leaders of political parties: Igor Dodon of the Party of Socialists of the Republic of Moldova, Irina Vlah of the Heart of Moldova, and Vasile Tarlev of the Future of Moldova). The discussions centred on economic and energy collaboration between the two nations.
Alexander Novak highlighted Russia’s dedication to nurturing amicable relations, fostering friendship and collaboration with Moldova, where over 220,000 Russian citizens reside. Simultaneously, the Moldovan diaspora in the Russian Federation is estimated to range between 300,000 and 500,000 individuals.
“Russia is intent on preserving and developing centuries-old ties with the Republic of Moldova, continuing dialogue with all constructively minded political forces in the republic that advocate strengthening Moldovan statehood, sovereignty, preserving its neutral status, and reinforcing friendly relations with our country,” stated Alexander Novak during the meeting with representatives of the Party of Socialists, the Heart of Moldova, and the Future of Moldova.
In recent years, due to the policies of Moldova’s current authorities, economic relations between Russia and Moldova have significantly deteriorated. Following Moldova’s signing of the Association Agreement with the European Union in 2014, trade between the two countries sharply declined. By 2015, trade turnover between Russia and Moldova had fallen by 32 percent, and Russia’s share in Moldovan exports plummeted from 70 percent to just over 3 percent over 15 years.
The Deputy Prime Minister added that Russia is always pleased to welcome Moldovan representatives at various forums, whether congresses or exhibition events.
“We value and encourage the development of interregional ties between our countries, contacts between political parties, public organisations, and interdepartmental interaction,” he concluded.
Alexander Novak also emphasised that energy has always been a crucial component of cooperation between Moscow and Chisinau.
“Russia has consistently supplied gas to Moldova at considerably more favourable prices compared to deliveries to Europe. It is unclear why this arrangement does not suit Moldovan authorities,” the Deputy Prime Minister remarked.
“Moldovan authorities have abandoned direct contracts with Russian partners. Moreover, they have created nearly unacceptable working conditions for Moldovagaz. We firmly believe it is necessary to return to direct dialogue and direct supplies,” stated Igor Dodon, leader of the Party of Socialists.
He noted that in 2020, Moldova purchased Russian gas at $148 per thousand cubic metres – the lowest price in the past 10–15 years, according to the politician.
“Undoubtedly, these were highly advantageous tariffs for end consumers, our economy, and the competitiveness of our goods. With the current administration in power, we have been purchasing Russian gas at $842 – tariffs also have risen sevenfold,” added Igor Dodon.
Alexander Novak underscored that Russia is prepared to resume friendly cooperation in the energy sector, should Moldovan authorities demonstrate such willingness.
