2024 Presidential Elections // Candidates' "solution" to the Transnistrian conflict
The resolution of the Transnistrian dispute and the territorial reintegration of the Republic of Moldova are essential themes in the electoral programs of the candidates for the presidency in 2024. From neutrality to European integration, the candidates propose various strategies to solve this conflict that is over three decades old.
Alexandr Stoianoglo: Neutrality and interethnic dialogue
Former Prosecutor General Alexandr Stoianoglo sees the neutrality of the Republic of Moldova as the key to solving the Transnistrian conflict. He proposes strengthening the status of neutrality and its international recognition, to ensure peace and stability in the region. Stoianoglo argues that inter-ethnic dialogue and collaboration between citizens are essential for restoring trust and finding a lasting solution.
Maia Sandu: Sustainable peace and European integration
The acting president, Maia Sandu, proposes a sustainable peace plan, based on the peaceful resolution of the conflict and the evacuation of Russian troops from the territory of the Republic of Moldova. The reintegration of the Transnistrian region is part of its strategy for joining the European Union until 2030. Sandu advocates diplomatic dialogue and collaboration with international partners to ensure territorial integrity.
Renato Usatîi: Neutrality and good neighbourly relations
The former mayor of Balti, Renato Usatîi, proposes maintaining neutrality and diplomatic dialogue as solutions for the reintegration of the Transnistrian region. He claims that balanced relations with neighbouring countries, especially with Ukraine and Romania, will help create a favorable framework for the peaceful resolution of the conflict. Usatii opposes the involvement of the Republic of Moldova in external or geopolitical conflicts.
Vasile Tarlev: Stability and negotiation tool
The former prime minister, Vasile Tarlev, approaches the Transnistrian problem through a strategy of peaceful dialogue and regional stability. He proposes an effective negotiation tool between the authorities in Chisinau and Tiraspol, supported by international partners. Tarlev believes that the reintegration of the region is an essential national objective, which can be achieved through a balanced and active foreign policy. Irina Vlah: Direct dialogue and confidence building.
The former bashcan of Gagauzia, Irina Vlah, proposes a direct and permanent dialogue between the president of the Republic of Moldova and the unrecognized leader of the Transnistrian region. She supports the creation of a joint working group to identify the solutions needed for reintegration. Vlah focuses on strengthening trust between the two banks of the Nistru and involving external partners in the negotiation process.
Ion Chicu: Joint economic projects and the withdrawal of foreign troops Former Prime Minister Ion Chicu believes that economic reintegration between the two banks of the Nistru is essential for solving the conflict. He proposes the expansion of the number of joint socio-economic projects and the complete withdrawal of foreign troops and ammunition from the territory of the Republic of Moldova, as this aspect as vital for the restoration of control over the entire territory.
Andrei Năstase: National security and diplomatic dialogue
The former Minister of the Interior, Andrei Năstase, approaches the Transnistrian problem from the perspective of national security, pleading for a diplomatic dialogue and international cooperation. He emphasizes the need to consolidate sovereignty and territorial integrity, insisting on a peaceful and diplomatic solution to the Transnistrian conflict.
Octavian Tîcu: Territorial unity and national independence
Historian Octavian Țîcu promotes the idea of territorial unity and national independence as a foundation for solving the Transnistrian conflict. He advocates for the consolidation of the state and the peaceful resolution of the conflict, without compromises regarding the sovereignty of the Republic of Moldova. Victoria Furtuna: Peace and harmony between communities
Former anti-corruption prosecutor Victoria Furtună emphasizes the importance of peace and harmony between the various ethnic groups in the Republic of Moldova. It proposes measures to promote dialogue and peaceful relations between the inhabitants of both banks of the Nistru. Tudor Ulianovschi: Stability and international cooperation
The former foreign minister, Tudor Ulianovschi, does not explicitly address the Transnistrian issue, but his program focuses on the territorial integrity of the Republic of Moldova and maintaining stability in the region. He argues that any solution must respect national sovereignty and be achieved through international cooperation. Natalia Morari: No specific approach
Journalist Natalia Morari does not specifically address the issue of the Transnistrian region or the reintegration of the country in her electoral program. Most of the candidates for the presidency of the Republic of Moldova propose peaceful and diplomatic solutions for the resolution of the Transnistrian conflict, emphasizing the importance of territorial integrity and international cooperation. The main differences are the emphasis on neutrality (Stoianoglo, Usatîi), European integration (Sandu) or economic reintegration (Chicu). All the candidates emphasize the need for dialogue and avoiding the involvement of the Republic of Moldova in external conflicts, but discrepancies remain regarding concrete strategies for the reintegration of the region.
