Russian ambassador says Moldova’s exit from CIS “not permanent”

Moldova’s withdrawal from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) was an ill-considered step that is strategically harmful to relations between Moscow and Chisinau and is not permanent, Oleg Ozerov, Russian Ambassador to Moldova, has stated.

Speaking at the “Russia–Moldova” session of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), he said Moldova’s presence in the CIS allowed it to maintain positive growth dynamics, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

He suggested that future leaders of the country may reassess relations between the two states.

“Perhaps future presidents and prime ministers are sitting here who see the prospects of our relations, taking into account our deep historical ties and the significant economic opportunities available. And of course, Russia can be a supplier of cheap electricity, gas and everything else, and can create opportunities for restoring Moldova’s economy to a trajectory of profitability and sustainable growth,” Ozerov stressed.

He also said trade turnover between Russia and Moldova could reach $1 billion.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov