RULING PARTY LEADERS OFF FOR VISIT TO USA

Moldovan Democratic Party leader Vlad Plahotniuc, the 'executive coordinator' of the ruling coalition in Moldova, is visiting the United States “where he has been scheduled to hold a series of meetings with political leaders, representatives of the civil society and an American university”, the DPM press service has reported.

The party delegation includes also DPM Deputy Chairpersons – incumbent Moldovan Parliament Chairman Andrian Candu and ex-Minister of Justice Vladimir Cebotari.

The visit’s first meeting was held in Houston on Monday with Congressman Pete Olson of Texas, who is also the Chairman of the parliamentary group USA-Moldova.

Vlad Plahotniuc said he was happy to see Congressman Olson, whom he regards as his friend.

“We discussed various questions in the economic and social fields, reforms under way, and a topic very important for Moldova – energy security. We also discussed the forthcoming parliamentary election [end-2018] and the Moldova-US relationship as a whole”, the DP Chairman said.

Plahotniuc described also the efforts being made by the Moldovan leadership to raise the country’s energy security and to diversify the sources of natural-gas and electricity supply.

“On behalf of 800 thousand Texas residents, Pete Olson assured the guest that he loves Moldova – a wonderful country and ally”, wrote the Moldovan Democratic Party’s press service.

“It is necessary to further work together and become closer, as this is happening lately. We have very good relations. Let’s further consolidate them and become stronger”, said the congressman.