Voronin and Smirnov “praised Russia’s effort in implementing agreements, which will eventually lead to a final resolution of the conflict,” Lavrov said.

The talks between the Moldovan and Transdniestrian leaders with Russia’s mediation took place in Moscow. Earlier some reports speculated that the meeting might fail to take place at all as there was no confirmation that Vladimir Voronin would take part.

Moldova’s breakaway region

Transdniester has been seeking independence from Moldova since the final days of the Soviet Union. The region has a predominantly Russian and Ukrainian population, with Moldavians a considerable minority. In late 1980, the local authorities in Moldova sought closer ties with Romania, and Transdniester's population – which feared discrimination – launched a campaign of civil disobedience.

The tension erupted into armed conflict, which was stopped by Russian peacekeepers. The region's peace process is sponsored by Ukraine, Russia, the European Union, the United States and the OSCE. So far Transdniester is not recognised as an independent state by any major country.