Moldova is a republic situated in the Bessarabia region in Eastern Europe, between Romania and Ukraine. The majority of the inhabitants are ethnic Rumenians, and Moldova has had close ties to Romania throughout history. Following World War II, Moldova was made a part of the Soviet Union, as the Moldavian SSR. In 1991, Moldova gained its independence. Moldova is one of Europe's poorest countries.
From the CIA World Factbook 2000. Slightly Wikified.