Partial results from Moldova’s parliamentary elections show that pro-EU parties have a narrow lead over those backing closer ties with Russia.
With 80% of the votes counted, the three pro-Western parties have about 44%. The opposition has 40%.
No party appears to be able to form a government, and tough post-election bargaining is predicted.
On the eve of the vote, one pro-Russian party was banned from Sunday’s poll — a move criticised by Russia.
The elections have taken on a wider significance in the shadow of the bloody crisis in neighbouring Ukraine.
That crisis began last November after Ukraine’s former leadership made a last-minute U-turn, refusing to sign a landmark association and free trade deal with the EU — under huge pressure from Russia, BBC informs.
