Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mihai Popșoi met with the new Head of the OSCE Mission to the Republic of Moldova, Christopher W. Smith, reports TRIBUNA.

The head of Moldova’s diplomatic service congratulated Christopher W. Smith on taking up his mandate and wished him success in carrying it out, expressing the openness of the authorities in Chișinău to close cooperation with the OSCE Mission.

The discussions focused on the situation in the Transnistrian region, security developments and prospects for the settlement process. Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popșoi reiterated Moldova’s firm commitment to finding a peaceful and lasting solution through dialogue and diplomatic means, while respecting the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.

The officials also discussed Moldova’s EU accession process and the consequences of the Russian Federation’s war of aggression against Ukraine for Moldova. The minister stressed that progress in the settlement process must contribute to strengthening peace and stability without affecting the country’s EU accession process.

The meeting also highlighted the OSCE Mission’s contribution to promoting human rights, strengthening the rule of law and supporting civil society, as well as building trust between the two banks of the Dniester.

“We count on your experience and involvement, as well as on the role of the OSCE Mission in supporting efforts for the peaceful reintegration of the country. Our objective is to identify a lasting solution and reintegrate the country, which will benefit all citizens of the Republic of Moldova,” Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popșoi said.

For his part, Christopher W. Smith expressed his readiness for close cooperation and continued dialogue with the authorities of the Republic of Moldova in order to make full use of the OSCE Mission’s mandate and expertise.