EU Condemns Transdniestrian Intransigence, Denies Blockade
March 10, 2006
BRUSSELS, March 10, 2006 (RFE/RL) -- The European Commission said today that it supports moves by Ukraine and Moldova to put an end to unauthorized trade from Transdniester.
The commission says it condemns any efforts by "the self-proclaimed" Transdniestrian authorities to hamper the legitimate movement of goods across the Ukrainian-Moldovan border.
The EU also condemns Transdniester's attempts to prevent companies from registering with Moldovan authorities, which is a precondition for cross-border trade.
The statement says the measures instituted by Ukraine, in consultation with Moldova, are intended to increase transparency in customs operations, and "do not in any way constitute a blockade."
The Commission also says that a similar arrangement was in place between Ukraine and Moldova from May 2003 until August 2004, and did not lead to any complications.
The statement notes the EU has a border assistance mission present on the ground in Moldova and Ukraine, which constantly monitors the situation.