Dodon spoke about the consequences in case of cancellation of visa-free travel for Russians in Moldova

If the Moldovan authorities introduce a visa regime for Russians, this will create a direct threat to internal stability and lead to an aggravation of relations with Transnistria. This was announced to Izvestia on October 24 by the ex-president of the republic, leader of the Party of Socialists Igor Dodon.

"An attempt to introduce a visa regime with Russia will create a direct threat to internal stability and lead to an aggravation of relations with Transnistria, where many citizens with Russian passports live, and may cause an increase in protest sentiments in Gagauzia, where Russia is traditionally perceived as a strategic partner. The government playing with such decisions is actually pushing the country towards a new internal split," Dodon said.

According to him, if the government decides to introduce visas for Russians, the faction of the Party of Socialists in Parliament will be categorically opposed.

"We will protect the right of citizens to move freely, maintain contacts and work where their work is respected. I urge the Government and Parliament not to succumb to external pressures. We should not turn Moldova into an instrument of other people's conflicts," he added.

On the silk road: China introduces a visa-free regime for Russians from September 15

Russian citizens will be able to enter China using a regular passport.

On October 16, Russian Ambassador to Moldova Oleg Ozerov, speaking with Izvestia, said that Moscow was ready for dialogue with Chisinau based on its commitment to the 2001 Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation. According to him, Russia, unlike Brussels, which imposes the "only right" geopolitical choice on its wards, supports Moldova's sovereign right to build an independent nationally oriented foreign policy.

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