AKIPRESS.COM - Partial results from Moldova's parliamentary elections show that pro-EU parties have a narrow lead over those backing closer ties with Russia, reports BBC.

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.