Moldovan Foreign Minister Mihai Popsoi met with Christopher W. Smith, the new head of the OSCE Mission to Moldova. Popsoi congratulated Smith on taking up the position and wished him success, while expressing Chisinau’s readiness for close cooperation with the OSCE Mission.
The discussions focused on the situation in the Transnistrian region, security developments and prospects for resolving the conflict. Popsoi reaffirmed Moldova’s 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 impact of Russia’s war against Ukraine on the country. Popsoi stressed that progress in the settlement process must contribute to strengthening peace and stability without affecting Moldova’s European integration.
The meeting also highlighted the OSCE Mission’s role in promoting human rights, strengthening the rule of law, supporting civil society and building confidence 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 goal is to identify a lasting solution and reintegrate the country, bringing benefits to all citizens of the Republic of Moldova,” Popsoi said.
For his part, Christopher W. Smith expressed his readiness to maintain close cooperation and regular dialogue with Moldova’s authorities in order to make full use of the OSCE Mission’s mandate and expertise.
Smith took over as head of the OSCE Mission to Moldova on August 31. The American diplomat will also serve as the OSCE mediator in the Transnistrian settlement process following his appointment by the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, the representative of Switzerland.