German chancellor proposes special status of Transdniestria within Moldova
CHISINAU. Aug 23 (Interfax) - German Federal Chancellor Angela Merkel has called for settling the Transdniestrian conflict with a special status of Transdniestria within united Moldova.
"It is possible to resolve the conflict [between Moldova and Transdniestria] through giving a special legal status to the region within territorially integral Moldova, in its internationally recognized borders. There is a need for an efficient central government and autonomy of local authorities," she told parliamentarians, ministers, politicians and public figures in Chisinau on Wednesday.
The status quo of the frozen conflict plays into the hands of a limited number of persons, the chancellor said. The problem cannot drag on; it must be resolved in the interests of people on both banks of the Dniester River, she added.
Merkel urged free traveling between Moldova and Transdniestria, which would contribute to economic development and investments.
"The European Union provides financial backup to the achievement of these goals. The funds are meant for both banks of the Dniester. Advantages of the Moldovan joining of the EU free zone and relaxed visa regime should also be enjoyed by people on both Dniester banks," she said.
Merkel said that Moldovan authorities should carry on the policy of reforms towards European integration and strengthening democracy.