The PMR’s MFA hosted a meeting between Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs Vitaly Ignatiev and delegation of the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, headed by Allison Thomas McPhee, Human Rights Officer, Europe and Central Asia, UN OHCHR, Geneva.
Opening the meeting, Vitaly Ignatiev noted that Pridnestrovie traditionally sought to build an open communication with the United Nations. “Over a considerable period of time we have been in constructive cooperation with a number of UN agencies. In this regard, we welcome the attention to the situation in Pridnestrovie in the socio-economic and humanitarian spheres” – the diplomat highlighted.
The sides discussed a wide range of issues of bilateral cooperation, primarily in the context of implementation of measures aimed at ensuring the rights of vulnerable groups of the population. Vitaly Ignatiev stressed out that systematic work is carried out to implement recommendations of the UN Senior Expert on Human Rights in Pridnestrovie Thomas Hammarberg, in particular in the field of de-institutionalization of the trusteeship system, protection of persons with disabilities, HIV/ AIDS and tuberculosis control and prevention, perinatal care system development and immunization of the population. “We do not conceal existing problems, because we believe that to solve them is possible only with international support” – stated the Foreign Minister.
Activities in the field of protection and ensuring of human rights in Pridnestrovie, according to the diplomat, are complicated by the unresolved conflict with the Republic of Moldova, as of today a number of unilateral steps by the RM adversely affects both the social and economic potential of Pridnestrovie, as well as exercise of inalienable human rights including freedom of movement, education, free choice of a nationality.
“There is a whole set of negative aspects that adversely impact on living standards of the population. That is why in the framework of the negotiation process we proceed from the small steps paradigm and the need to address specific priority issues to improve people’s lives. People, especially those who need extra help and support, cannot be hostages of the unresolved conflict” – concluded Vitaly Ignatiev.
In turn, Allison Thomas McPhee said during the meeting that the UN and the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights will continue to expand cooperation with Pridnestrovie in the protection and observance of human rights.
At the end of the meeting the sides agreed to continue direct contacts on issues of mutual interest.
