CHISINAU. Feb 21 (Interfax) - Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Recean has called for removing the Operational Group of Russian Forces from Transdniestria.
"Moldova is involved in a process that implies an exclusively peaceful resolution of the Transdniestria issue. This means that Russia is supposed to withdraw its troops and evacuate its weapons and ammunition. Russia has undertaken the obligation to do so, more than once. We should be assured that Russia will deliver on its promise. This is what demilitarization means," Recean told journalists on Tuesday.
He said he was not speaking about phasing out the peacekeeping operation conducted in line with the Moldovan-Russian agreement of July 21, 1992.
"I am speaking about the Operational Group of Russian Forces, which is over 1,500 Russian troops staying in the Republic of Moldova without legitimate reasons. And Russia has repeatedly reaffirmed its obligation to withdraw the remnants of its former 14th Army," Recean said.
Asked about the possibility that the situation in Moldova might be destabilized, Recean confirmed that such scenarios do exist, but the relevant Moldovan agencies are prepared for such challenges.
"We overcame quite a turbulent autumn, and our agencies coped with that and gained substantial experience. We've consolidated efforts and are prepared for various scenarios concerning Moldova's security. Our goal is to preserve peace and stability, including on the left bank of the Dniester River. Moldova is committed to a peaceful path of settling the conflict over Transdniestria," Recean said.