Transdniester To Boycott Talks Over Customs Dispute

(RFE/RL) 20 January 2006 -- The leader of Moldova's separatist region Transdniester say his administration will boycott talks with the Moldovan government due to a recent agreement between Moldova and Ukraine meant to stop smuggling on the Transdniester-Ukraine border.

Igor Smirnov believes the agreement poses a threat to Transdniester's economy, saying that the deal foresees all of Transdniester's exports would be certified by the Moldovan government beginning 25 January.

Transdniester denies claims by Moldova's government that the region is a haven for smugglers.

(AP)