SIMFEROPOL, March 6 – The proposed referendum on the status of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea has been moved from March 30 to March 16.

The Crimean Supreme Council passed a resolution on joining the Russian Federation and the holding of the Crimean referendum, including in Sevastopol, on Thursday, the press centre of the Crimean parliament has reported.

"The Supreme Council of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea resolved: To join the Russian Federation as a constituent of the Russian Federation; To hold on March 16, 2014, an all-Crimea referendum (including Sevastopol)," the resolution reads.