​TRANSNISTRIA MARKS 24TH INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY

The self-proclaimed Transnistrian Moldovan Republic (PMR) is marking the 24th anniversary of its independence from the Republic of Moldova.

For the first time ever since 1990, the unrecognized republic has been in so tough an economic situation that the Tiraspol administration has decided not to organize a traditional military parade.

The Day of the Republic, which is a day-off in Transnistria, was marked by the authorities only with laying flowers to the Military Glory Memorial, the solemn hoisting of the ‘state flag’, and numerous entertainment events.

For the first time over many years, the authorities did not organize a traditional news conference to present the republic’s development achievements. Nor did they hold a traditional official solemn meeting. On the holiday’s eve, Transnistrian president Yevgeny Shevchuk only handed in numerous ‘state awards’.

This time, however, he did not present a report. He only restricted himself to a short congratulatory message, in which he indicated the main objective – “strengthening of the unity and solidarity of the multinational people of Transnistria, improvement of their living standards, consolidation of peace and stability in the society”.

Traditionally, Transnistria is being visited this week by a big company of Russian guests led by MP Sergey Gavrilov, Chairman of the Russian State Duma [parliament] Standing Committee for Property Issues and the coordinator of the inter-faction group for interaction with Transnistria.

The Transnistrians enjoyed a big concert that was given to them by Moscow singers and musicians – Alexander Gradsky, Pelageya, the chorus of the Moscow Sretensky Monastery, and duet “Russian Guitars”.