Moldova moves to close Russian Cultural Center over security risk
The Munteanu Government is moving forward with procedures to close the Russian Center for Science and Culture in Chișinău, an initiative authorities first announced in February.
The draft for denouncing the Cultural Agreement with the Russian Federation, which governs the center's operation, has been placed on the agenda for the new cabinet’s first meeting on November 5.
The agreement was signed in October 1998 to foster cultural exchange reciprocity between the two states. It came into force in July 2001, providing for the establishment of cultural centers in both countries.
Minister of Culture, Cristian Jardan, stated in the project’s explanatory note: "Given that the Republic of Moldova does not benefit from a cultural center on Russian territory, there is no equitable mechanism for promoting information about Moldova, which undermines the balance and the initial purpose of the Agreement."
The cited source further argues that "in the context of the current geopolitical situation and the high risk of Russian disinformation, this agreement can be utilized as a tool for promoting distorted narratives by the Russian Federation."
Procedurally, the agreement can be denounced by notifying the other party at least six months before the end of the current validity period, which automatically renews every five years.
Authorities emphasize that denouncing the Cultural Agreement with Russia will not entail any financial or economic repercussions, nor does it require the reorganization of existing government structures. "No risks that could affect the interests of the Republic of Moldova are identified, and no political or other type of consequences are anticipated," the document assures.
The intention to revoke the agreement was first announced by Chișinău's Ministry of Foreign Affairs in February this year. The decision was communicated to Russian Ambassador Oleg Ozerov, who had been summoned to the MFA following a new airspace violation over the Republic of Moldova by Russian drones.
Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popșoi, who is also the Minister of Foreign Affairs, recently announced on the Moldova 1 show "ÎN CONTEXT" that the Government's decision will be followed by a parliamentary vote, the signing of a decree by the Head of State, and the official notification of the Russian side.
Deputy Prime Minister Popșoi asserted that the closure of the Moldova Russian Center for Science and Culture is "a deliberate political move to counteract threats to Moldova National Security."
Translation by Iurie Tataru
