Moldova to repay €100,000 in CIS dues before leaving bloc

Moldova will need to repay outstanding contributions of around €100,000 to the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) before completing its withdrawal from the organisation, Foreign Minister Mihai Popșoi said.

Popșoi stated that if Moldova intends to leave the CIS by the end of 2026, it must first settle accumulated debts amounting to approximately €100,000 or slightly more. He described the sum as not excessive but still significant, adding that paying it is necessary if Moldova wishes to comply with international law and maintain peaceful relations, Caliber.Az reports via Moldovan media. 

He acknowledged that Moldova has not derived tangible benefits from its participation in the CIS in recent years, noting that the country has continued to make contributions despite limited returns. Nevertheless, he emphasised that fulfilling outstanding financial obligations is important to ensure an orderly and lawful withdrawal.

Popșoi also said that the Moldovan parliament could begin the process of denouncing the agreements underpinning the country’s CIS membership as early as February.

Under CIS procedures, withdrawal would take effect 12 months after the decision is published in Moldova’s official gazette and a formal notification is submitted to the CIS.

By Sabina Mammadli