Gavrilita: Moldova Wants to Remain Neutral

According to Natalia Gavrilita, there is a risk of escalation of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict on the territory of Moldova but “so far seems a remote danger”. Moldova is determined to remain neutral and sees no immediate threat of the Ukrainian conflict spreading to its territory, Moldovan Prime Minister Natalia Gavrilita said in an interview with Corriere della Sera newspaper published on Wednesday, tass.ru reported. “We want to remain neutral. Moldova’s neutrality is enshrined in the constitution and is widely supported by the population,” she said. “We are a peaceful and neutral country that believes in diplomatic dialogue.” According to Gavrilita, Moldova feels the risk of escalation of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict but “so far seems a remote danger.” Referring to the economic implications of the Ukrainian crisis, the prime minister said that the country has seen “a significant increase in prices and energy costs”. “Gas is 360% more expensive than last year. We have lost access to key markets in Russia, Belarus, Ukraine, which accounted for 15% of our exports of goods and services,” she specified. “There is great concern about our energy resources,” Gavrilita added. In March, Moldova applied for EU membership along with Georgia and Ukraine. The prime minister noted that the move was “symbolic but very important.” “We understand that it will be a long path but we are working hard, for example, on justice reform,” she pointed out. Point