Chișinău Parliament Ends Cultural Center Agreement with Russia

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Chișinău Parliament Ends Cultural Center Agreement with Russia

The Parliament of Chișinău has voted to terminate the cultural center agreement with Russia. This decision was taken on November 13, 2025, with 60 members of the Action and Solidarity Party and the “Democracy at Home” party supporting the motion in its first reading.

Details of the Agreement’s Termination

The original agreement, signed on October 30, 1998, aimed to establish and operate cultural centers in both Russia and Moldova. However, the current geopolitical climate has raised concerns about the potential misuse of this agreement.

Ministerial Statements

Christian Jardan, Moldova’s Minister of Culture, clarified that the termination does not oppose Russian culture or language. Instead, he emphasized that the move is against the politicization and misrepresentation of cultural values.

Denouncement aims to protect Moldova from disinformation.
Termination follows the lack of a cultural center in Russia.
Action aligns with Moldova’s commitment to transparent international dialogue.

Jardan stated, “Moldova seeks to promote culture and international cooperation in a fair manner, consistent with national interests.” He also noted the importance of addressing distortions that contribute to misinformation and geopolitical tensions.

Context and Implications

In light of recent tensions, including Russian drones violating Moldovan airspace, the government initiated the agreement’s termination. The Cabinet approved the project on November 5, 2025, citing risks to national security.

The cultural center established in Chișinău in 2009, which is managed by the Russian embassy, has faced scrutiny. It is funded by Rossotrudnichestvo, a Russian agency under international sanctions for promoting Kremlin influence.

Next Steps

In the coming days, Moldovan deputies are set to vote on this legislation in its final reading. Should the termination proceed, the Russian Cultural Center will cease operations in Moldova.