The parliament of the former Soviet Republic of Moldova has voted to restore the local administrative divisions used between the first and second world wars.

The move was opposed by the Moldovan president, Petru Lucinschi, who had insisted that an area inhabited by an ethnic Bulgarian minority Taraclia be given autonomous status.

In October a diplomatic row erupted with Bulgaria after its ambassador said the minority should link up with the autonomous Gagauz region if its demands were not met.

Correspondents say that President Lucinschi is required by the constitution to sign the bill into law, but that the move could have far-reaching consequences for the politics of Moldova as local elections are due to be held in the new counties early next year.