Relations between Moldova and Transdnestr have been tense since March 1992, when Moldova declared independence from the Soviet Union, and Transdnestr in turn proclaimed itself a republic. Russia has had peacekeepers in the area since July 1992, and the negotiation process has been frozen since February 2006.
"Until Transdnestr's economic independence is fully restored, as provided for under the 1997 memorandum, and earlier signed agreements with Moldova, no negotiations will take place," Igor Smirnov said at a press conference.
"There is no other way than autonomy and independence," the Transdnestr leader said.
Although Tiraspol has refused for over a year to meet at the negotiation table, Smirnov said they were ready for talks in a five-plus-two format, involving Moldova, Transdnestr, Russia, Ukraine, the OSCE, the U.S. and EU.
Smirnov denounced the recent statement made by Moldavian president, Vladimir Voronin, who said that the Transdnestr issue had never been so close to a settlement.
"The people of Moldova and Transdnestr have a different mentality, ideology and ideals," the Transdnestr leader said, adding that a new generation had grown up only knowing the republic.
During the September referendum last year 98% of the population of Transdnestr voted for independence and future unification with Russia.
