Surprise as Moldova's pro-EU foreign minister steps down

(ANSA-AFP) - CHISINAU, JAN 24 - Moldova's Foreign Minister Nicu Popescu stepped down in a surprise move Wednesday after helping steer the former Soviet republic towards EU membership.
    Last month European Union leaders agreed to open formal membership talks with small nation which borders Ukraine. "It is with mixed feelings that I announce that I have decided to hand in my resignation", Popescu -- who was also deputy prime minister -- told a press conference in the capital Chisinau. The 42-year-old said he "needed a break", but vowed to stand by his ally President Maia Sandu, who is seeking a second term this year. Popescu is one of Moldova's most pro-EU politicians.
    (ANSA-AFP).