Federal Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier is pleased that the general elections in the Republic of Moldova passed off peacefully. In this connection Steinmeier issued today (31 July) in Berlin the following statement:

“I am pleased the general elections have passed off peacefully and on present reports conformed in many respects to international standards. To strengthen people's confidence in their country's democratic future, it is important the Moldovan authorities immediately investigate the allegations of election irregularities.

All political forces are now called upon through a process of constructive dialogue to find a common basis for the formation of a stable government. Both such a government and a programme of fundamental political and economic reform are essential if the Republic of Moldava is to successfully tackle the challenges that lie ahead.

Within the European Union Germany will work to bring the Republic of Moldova closer to Europe and intensify cooperation especially in the framework of the Eastern Partnership.”