Moldova to pursue policy towards European integration, relations with Russia with due account of own interests - new FM

CHISINAU. Jan 29 (Interfax) - Relations with Russia will be developed while taking into account the interests of Moldova and its citizens, new Moldovan Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration Mihai Popsoi said.

"Our position has not changed. Relations with the Russian Federation are fundamental for us. Relations with Russia will be built by taking into account the interests of Moldova and its citizens. The country's independence and territorial integrity is the foundation of our relations with both the Russian Federation and any other country," Popsoi told reporters on Monday after his swearing-in ceremony.

"The absolute priority for Moldova is the process of its European integration," he said. "This is our path - the path of our country's development and modernization. It's also very important to develop relations with Romania, Ukraine and the United States," Popsoi said.

On January 24, Moldovan Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration and Deputy Prime Minister Nicu Popescu announced his resignation. On January 26, Moldovan President Maia Sandu signed a decree appointing Popsoi Moldovan deputy prime minister and minister of foreign affairs and European integration. On Monday morning, he took his oath of office in the presence of President Sandu and Prime Minister Dorin Recean. Until now, Popsoi served as the deputy speaker of parliament. He is also deputy chairman of the ruling Action and Solidarity (PAS) party.