Moscow says that a ‘Romanization’ policy pursued by Bucharest will be implemented in Moldova. The Russians are concerned that the Romanians intend to cultivate unionist ideas in the people’s conscience. Related statements were made by the head of the fourth European Department of the Russian Foreign Ministry Andrei Maslov in an interview for the radio station Voice of Russia, quoted by IPN.
“Moscow observed that several EU member states have demanded restoring the Alliance for European Integration at any cost, which represents interference in the internal affairs of a sovereign state. Given the multiethnic composition of the Moldovan population, we are concerned about the ‘Romanization’ policy promoted by Bucharest and the intention to develop unionist ideas in the people’s conscience,” said Andrei Maslov.
The Russian official also said that he follows the related developments and reacts, including as a mediator in the Transnistrian conflict settlement process. “The inhabitants of Moldova have the right to decide their fate by themselves. The pressure exerted from outside does not contribute to overcoming the extended crisis. On the contrary, it contributes to the destabilization of the situation and the worsening of the Transnistrian conflict settlement process,” stated Andrei Maslov.
Referring to the relations between Russia and Romania, Andrei Maslov said there has been unfriendly rhetoric on the part of Bucharest during the last few years. “The political climate is now changing significantly. Our Romanian partners are interested in improving the relations and strengthening the dialogue around a positive agenda. A pragmatic attitude on the development of the bilateral relations without prejudice and stereotypes would satisfy the interests of both of the countries and would foster cooperation in all areas,” he added.
The South Stream gas pipeline that will be built by Russia will bypass Romania. Consequently, it will not benefit from the advantages related to gas transportation. Some politicians say Moscow took a political decision, with Gazprom aiming to punish the Romanians this way. Andrei Maslov said that this pipeline will not go through many states. The optimal route was determined as a result of a feasibility study.
