OREANDA-NEWS  On 26 February was announced, that Moldovan Prime Minister Grecianii described the Moldovan-Russian relations as constructive and underlined the need to continue developing them, the Russian official's visit confirming the positive dynamic of these relations.

"The economic collaboration, both the bilateral and the multilateral one, is being very opportune given the ongoing world economic crisis. Moldova has an open economy, integrated in regional processes. Hence, as chairman of the Commonwealth of the Independent States (CIS) bodies,  it will advocate the abolition of artificial barriers to the movement of goods and people, in order to contribute to the commonwealth's integration," Grecianii said.

For his part, Lavrov said that the relations with Moldova are developing in the spirit of partnership and in line with the Moldovan-Russian friendly agreement. "I share your optimism as about our bilateral relations, and the Moldovan and Russian presidents' political decisions have an impetus to the settlement of several bilateral issues. Thus, the Moldovan wines are winning back their position on the Russian market having a share of 11 per cent at the moment," Lavrov said.

The Russian official praised the Moldovan programme for the CIS chairmanship, and underlined its serious and concrete approach to current issues, such as the world economic crisis, collaboration in the energy sector and youth policies.

At the same time, the sides welcomed the opening of the Russian cultural centre in Chisinau and spoke out for deepening humanitarian cooperation.

Grecianii thanked the Russian side for its support offered to overcome the consequences of the drought and floods that hit Moldova in the past years, as well as for assistance in the evacuation of Moldovan citizens from Gaza Strip during the recent armed conflict.

Grecianii praised the efficient activity of the joint Commission for economic and trade collaboration and spoke in favour of opening more customs points for the export of Moldovan wines, fruits and vegetables to Russia and stressed the importance of  ensuring good functioning of quality-testing labs.

The officials also discussed the possibility to attract Russian assistance in the implementation of infrastructure projects on both banks of the Dniestre, aimed at strengthening confidence between Chisinau and Tiraspol.