1. INTRODUCTION

1. The Claimants in this arbitration are Russian citizens who operate a company which Is Involved in the production and sale of paints, varnishes and similar products in the Republic of Moldova. Claimants allege that their company has been the target of consistent discriminatory actions by Respondent, including arbitrary tax and environmental policy modifications. Claimants consider themselves as investors under the Bilateral investment Treaty entered into on 17 March 1998 between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Moldova (the "Treaty") and allege that the actions of Respondent violate their rights under the Treaty. Claimants seek damages for these violations.

2. Respondent denies these claims.