Lavrov: Russia Shares Moldova’s Mood to Develop Cooperation

The Russian side does hear Chisinau’s statements about its readiness to develop cooperation with Moscow and is interested in implementing these plans. This was stated by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov at talks with his Moldovan counterpart Nicolae Popescu, noi.md reports citing rg.ru. “We hear repeated statements by the new leadership of the Republic of Moldova about readiness for constructive, pragmatic cooperation with Russia. And we share this attitude and will be interested in continuing our bilateral relations,” the Russian Foreign Minister said. According to Lavrov, Russia and Moldova are historically close to each other. “I think we will be able to promote our ties on a mutually beneficial basis in the interests of our nations,” the minister said, stressing that this should take place on the principles of pragmatism and mutual respect for the interests. “In our foreign policy, we stand for good, even, progressive relations with our partners. Naturally, the Russian Federation is a traditional strategic partner for us. We are up for friendly and constructive relations, we have a meaningful bilateral agenda and we are ready to work with our Russian colleagues on progress in our relations,” Popescu said in response. Earlier, Russia and Moldova agreed on the terms of gas supplies, the new contract entered into force on November 1. One of the conditions for its conclusion was the issue of settling the debt of the Moldovan side (we are talking about an amount of over $ 700 million). Early next year, an independent audit will be carried out, based on the results of which the conditions and a schedule of debt reimbursement will be determined. The governments of the two countries also intend to sign an agreement on cooperation in the energy sector by the end of 2022. Point