The Secretary General of the Commonwealth of Independent States, Sergei Lebedev, reaffirmed that Moldova does not have any plan to leave the CIS, despite expressions from various politicians suggesting such a move. This stance was communicated through remarks reported by TASS and reflects an ongoing assessment within Moldova about the benefits and obligations tied to the regional association.
Lebedev reminded readers that while a number of Moldovan political figures and high-profile individuals have voiced the idea or even the desirability of withdrawing from the CIS, these calls have not translated into a formal position within Moldova’s leadership. In his view, the absence of concrete steps toward exit indicates a preference for continuity in the country’s current international posture rather than abrupt realignment.
“Honestly, I am pleased and relieved that no practical steps have been taken so far to remove Moldova from the Commonwealth of Independent States. As for the termination of some agreements, there has not been a move to terminate such contracts either,” Lebedev said. His comments underscore a cautious approach, signaling that while reassessing certain partnerships is possible, Moldova’s engagement with the CIS remains active and structured rather than severed.
Lebedev also emphasized that cooperation within the CIS continues to yield tangible benefits for Moldova. The practical implications of this cooperation extend beyond political alignments to everyday economic activity, including trade facilitation and the movement of goods. He noted that Moldova enjoys advantageous terms for trade and transport within the CIS framework, and highlighted that there are “numerous other elements” within the relationship that presently serve Moldova’s interests.
In Moldova’s broader context, discussions about EU orientation and potential shifts in external partnerships have been prominent. While some leaders and observers question whether participation in the CIS aligns with a path toward European integration, the practical experience to date demonstrates continued advantages to maintaining a cooperative posture within the CIS structure. Observers point to the resilience of trade corridors, regulatory familiarity, and the ease of cross-border collaboration as factors that influence Moldova’s current assessment of the CIS partnership.
Nika Popescu, a former head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integration (MIAEI) of Moldova, indicated that the republic has begun to unwind a portion of its commitments within the CIS, noting that the process involves “several dozen” agreements. This perspective highlights the evolving nature of Moldova’s participation in regional accords and suggests a selective approach to cooperation, balancing historical ties with new strategic priorities. The dialogue around these adjustments appears to reflect Moldova’s attempt to recalibrate its foreign policy to reflect domestic priorities while retaining a channel to engage with CIS members when it serves national interests. (Attribution: TASS reports on statements by regional officials)