CHISINAU, June 27. /ITAR-TASS/. Rivals of rapprochement with the European Union in Moldova stated protest actions had started right in several cities of the country, leader of the opposition Socialist party Igor Dodon told a media briefing.

“The Association Agreement with the European Union signed by Moldovan authorities will have a negative impact on economy and will threaten territorial integrity of the country,” Dodon said, noting that “Today we are holding peaceful protest actions in Brussels as well as Moldovan cities of Balti and Comrat (Autonomous Territorial Unit of Gagauzia). Next week protests in the republic will continue.”

In his words, the Socialists will seek for a republican referendum on this issue and “denunciation of the agreement.” The Communist party which controls a third of votes in the supreme republican legislature, also opposed the association deal. The opposition is concerned that the lack of accord on this issue in the society may provoke an interethnic conflict and a final split in the country.

More than 90% of voters backed rapprochement with Russia and incorporation in the Customs Union of Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan at referenda in the non-recognised republic of Transdniestria and the Gagauzia autonomy. Authorities of the second largest Moldovan city of Balti are also preparing a plebiscite on foreign political policy of the country.