SOCHI, September 3 (RIA Novosti) - Transdnestr leader Igor Smirnov said he has lifted a moratorium on talks to find a settlement to the conflict with Moldova after a meeting with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev.

"We earlier imposed a moratorium on meetings, as there had been no response from the Moldovan president to events in South Ossetia, but now we will lift it," Smirnov told the Russia Today international news channel.

The predominantly Russian-speaking province broke away from Moldova in 1990, and strengthened its de-facto independence in an armed conflict with Moldova in 1992. Joint peacekeeping forces comprising Russian, Moldovan and Transdnestr contingents are currently in the conflict area.

Along with Georgia's rebel regions South Ossetia and Abkhazia, which were recently recognized by Russia as independent states, Transdnestr has stepped up its drive for self-rule since Kosovo's declaration of independence in February.

Transdnestr has joined Russia in recognizing South Ossetia and Abkhazia, who have reciprocated by recognizing Transdnestr.

In a referendum held in Transdnestr, 98% of the population voted for independence and for future unification with Russia.

Smirnov said the Transdnestr issue demands patience.