The ministry took note with indignation of the expulsion of the Romanian ambassador to Chisinau and firmly rejected all accusations launched by Moldovan president Vladimir Voronin, who said Romania is behind the anticommunist street protests that are taking place in Chisinau Wednesday for the second day running.
The ministry added Moldovan authorities’ unilateral decision to impose travel restrictions on Romanian citizens is aberrant. The ministry also said Romania will maintain its free visa system for Moldovan citizens.
The Foreign Ministry also said Romania has backed and will continue to back the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Moldova and will continue to have a European approach in its relationship with the neighboring country despite the “anti-Romanian policy of communist authorities in Chisinau".
Voronin said Wednesday during a meeting with representatives of the civil society that Moldova has decided to require travel visas for Romanian citizens, prompted by violent street clashes in Chisinau.
Thousands continue to protest in the Moldovan capital Wednesday after communists won a general election held Sunday. Voronin threatened authorities would use force if demonstrators continue protests.