Mr. Chair,
Let me join others in thanking the Head of the Mission to Moldova, Dr. Claus Neukirch for his report to the Permanent Council. Thank you for concluding your presentation on a positive note!
Norway notes with concern the recent deterioration of the relations between Chisinau and Tiraspol. Covid-19 is a challenge for us all, but it is important that it is not made into an excuse for imposing undue restrictions on freedom of movement. The reported attacks on freedom of expression founded on allegations of extremism on the left bank is another matter of concern. We appreciate the updates on these and similar matters from the mission. It is important that the Mission continues to lead out attention to such developments.
Notwithstanding the abovementioned relations between Chisinau and Tiraspol there have been some positive developments with regards to the Berlin-plus package. We commend the work done and encourage the mission to continue their assistance to the Special Representative of the Chairmanship with the aim to conduct a meaningful meeting in the 5+2 format.
Increased levels of domestic violence is a tragic collateral circumstance to the pandemic. The introduction of electronic bracelets for perpetrators is a welcome step towards protecting victims and we appreciate the Mission’s co-operation with NGOs working in this field.
Norway would prefer if the Mission could pay more attention to the benefits of gender mainstreaming across all dimensions of its work and include reporting on the effects of this in its reporting to the Permanent Council. .
Norway sees the field missions as one of the main added values of the OSCE. Assisting participating states in upholding our commonly agreed commitments through capacity building and sharing of best practices is worthwhile and we commend Dr. Neukirch and his able team for their work.
Thank you.