A meeting of the Expert (Working) Groups on Economic Issues was held at the OSCE Mission office in Chisinau, attended by representatives of the mediators and observers.
The main topic of the meeting was Moldova’s planned measures to impose additional fiscal burdens on economic entities in Pridnestrovie.
The Pridnestrovian side expressed dissatisfaction that, contrary to the invitations sent earlier, the meeting took place after the Moldovan Parliament had already adopted the relevant bill and was largely focused on crisis response.
Citing specific examples, Pridnestrovian representatives explained in detail the catastrophic consequences of the possible implementation of these destructive measures and, given that their regulation now falls under the authority of the Moldovan executive branch, presented a set of alternative solutions for building economic cooperation.
Potential priority areas were identified for normalizing economic relations, developing production and logistics capacity, removing barriers, and improving the well-being of the population.
In particular, specific proposals were put forward regarding transport connectivity, energy, and banking cooperation. The concept was presented in general terms with the aim of preventing negative steps and establishing constructive dialogue through close coordination within the framework of expert (working) groups. The Pridnestrovian side outlined a number of possible practical solutions aimed at stimulating development and cooperation.
In addition, other significant topics on the current agenda were discussed during the meeting, including the negative impact of customs duties unilaterally imposed by the Republic of Moldova, the lifting of restrictions on the export of industrial products from Pridnestrovie and on the import of plant protection products and veterinary drugs into the PMR, as well as environmental and other fees.
