President Voronin 4 May visited Transdniester, first time since 2001. Russia reportedly offered support of territorial integrity if Moldova refrained from NATO bid. During 27 May Brussels visit Voronin pledged willingness to restart talks “at any moment” given Transdniester accepts broad autonomy; External Relations Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner outlined judiciary, political reforms necessary for closer EU ties.

President Voronin 11 Apr offered “broadest possible autonomy” to Transdniestrian separatist leader Igor Smirnov in first direct meeting in 7 years; no further progress.

PM Vasile Tarlev resigned 19 March to “offer new people the chance to work for the well-being of the country”. President Voronin 12 March said Moldova will not join NATO if Russia accepts its sovereignty over Transdniestria.

Transdniestrian foreign ministry announced 19 Feb intention to seek independence following Kosovo declaration (see Kosovo). Editor of newspaper Timpul Tanase investigated on charges of endangering public security and public anti-Russian statements after 3 Feb TV statements.

President Vladimir Voronin called for “strategic partnership” with Russia during 22 Jan visit to Moscow. 2 Romanian priests banned from entry to Moldova, 2 others face expulsion.

Transdneistrian parliamentary speaker Yevgeny Shevchuk vowed 19 December to renew bid for independence if UN endorses Kosovo statehood. Tensions intensified as 2 Romanian diplomats expelled 12 December. Chisinau responded with demand Romania sign treaty recognising Moldovan independence 14 December.

Chisinau threatened to ban cars with Transdniestrian license plates from traveling in Moldova from 2009. President Voronin told press draft international plan on Transdniestria already “agreed upon”.

Transdniestrian de facto court sentenced 2 men to 9-10 years for making bomb which exploded on Tiraspol bus in July 2006.

Transdniestrian media reported Russian shuttle diplomacy between breakaway Tiraspol and Chisinau 31 July-1 August in apparent effort to restart talks.

European Parliament adopted nonbinding resolution 12 July condemning “severe and widespread” rights violations by Transdniestrian authorities. Appeals court overturned former defence minister Valeriu Pasat’s January 2006 conviction over sale of 21 fighter planes to U.S., releasing him from prison.