Moldovan Prime Minister Iurie Leanca held a phone conversation with Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan earlier this week to discuss issues of mutual interest.

According to the Moldovan government's website, Erdogan congratulated Leanca on Moldova's signing of the Association Agreement with the European Union, saying that it bring greater prosperity to the country.

The two premiers also discussed bilateral ties and the situation in Moldova, including in the southern Gagauz region, which has played an important role in Moldovan-Turkish relations.

The officials said they welcomed the establishment of a dialogue between Moldovan ministers and members of the Popular Assembly of Gagauz-Yeri. Leanca said a working group has held several joint meetings and drafted a law that would amend legislation in the region. In addition, a draft law on Gagauz-Yeri's special legal status will be voted on in its second reading in Parliament.