2008 News Archive

Ambassador Kirby speaks about US-Moldovan relations on Moldova 1 TV interview

14 February 2008

US Ambassador to Moldova, Michael D. Kirby is interviewed by Ludmila Barba on Moldova 1 TV

In a live televised talk show hosted by journalist Ludmila Barba on Moldova 1 TV on February 13, US Ambassador to Moldova, Michael D. Kirby spoke about the current state of US-Moldovan relations, paying special attention to current assistance projects and to the ongoing reform process in Moldova.  The Ambassador hailed Moldova’s efforts toward European integration as a path to ensure a transparent and functioning judiciary, media and an attractive business climate for investors.  At the same time, Mr. Kirby suggested, Europe should also be more welcoming to Moldova’s integration efforts and leave an “open door” for accession.

The Ambassador emphasized the need to fight corruption as one of the most stringent issues to be addressed by Moldova, noting in this regard the country’s participation in the Millennium Challenge Corporation Threshold Program since December 2006, and Moldova’s bid for the full MCC Compact.

Ambassador Kirby also spoke extensively about the current consultations on the Transnistrian settlement, reiterating the position of the United States that a peaceful solution may only be reached within the existent 5+2 format of talks, to which all parties should be committed.  He reiterated the U.S. respect for Moldova’s choice to maintain its neutrality status and not to join NATO.