Russian P.M. Vladimir Putin congratulates Moldovan P.M. Vlad Filat on his appointment

Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin recently sent a telegram to his Moldovan counterpart, whom he congratulated on his recent appointment.

The telegram says that "Moldovan-Russian ties are based on traditions of friendship and mutual respect. I am convinced that their multilateral evolution corresponds to the rooted interests of the peoples of our countries."

The new ruling Alliance for European Integration is more pro-Western than the previous Communist-run Government (2001-2009), which has caused some recent tension with Russian authorities. The Alliance has said, however, that it seeks good ties with the Kremlin.