Moldova’s Prime Minister, Dorin Recean, has outlined a clear plan for the peaceful reintegration of the Transnistrian region under the full jurisdiction of Chișinău, during a crisis briefing held on 6 January in the Moldovan capital. This announcement comes against the backdrop of ongoing tensions in the region, fuelled by the continued presence of Russian military forces.
Recean reiterated the Moldovan government’s unwavering commitment to reclaiming administrative control over the separatist region. The Prime Minister emphasised that the first step in this process is the withdrawal of Russian troops stationed in Transnistria, a presence that is regarded as illegal by the international community.
“Our objective is the reintegration of the country, which must begin with Russia removing its troops. This will allow us to administer the region appropriately. We aim for a peaceful resolution, and a peaceful resolution starts with the withdrawal of these forces,” Recean stated.
International Peacekeepers Proposed
Recean proposed that the departure of Russian forces be followed by the deployment of independent international peacekeepers. This, he suggested, would create a secure environment conducive to reintegration efforts.
“The next phase involves the introduction of an international peacekeeping contingent, after which the constitutional authorities will begin providing services in the region,” he explained.
This phased approach highlights Moldova’s intent to replace the existing security structure in Transnistria with one that aligns with international standards and fosters stability.
Gradual Integration Already Underway
While awaiting the resolution of the military and geopolitical stalemate, the Moldovan government is focusing on what Recean described as “remote reintegration.” This involves offering Transnistrian residents access to the same opportunities and benefits available to citizens in the rest of Moldova.
“We are working to integrate the residents of Transnistria into our system of social services, our business environment, and our market, enabling them to export goods to the EU, as is the case for the rest of Moldova,” Recean said.
These measures, he noted, aim to build economic and social ties between the region and the rest of the country, despite Chișinău’s lack of direct administrative or law enforcement control in Transnistria.
The Path Forward
The Prime Minister’s remarks underline Moldova’s dual-track strategy: fostering closer ties with Transnistrian residents while advocating for international support to resolve the conflict diplomatically. However, the full reintegration of Transnistria remains contingent on the withdrawal of Russian military personnel, a demand that Moldova has consistently pressed in both bilateral and international forums.
Recean concluded by reaffirming his government’s ultimate goal: “Our aim is the full and peaceful reintegration of Transnistria.”
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