The over 5,000 documents and publications about the Council of Europe (CoE), its cooperation with Moldova and the joint programs that are available at the Pro-European Services and Communication Center of the National Library were presented at an exhibition entitled “Council of Europe – Republic of Moldova: accomplishments and priorities”. Mounted on July 12, the exhibit marks the 23rd anniversary of the day Moldova became a CoE member, IPN reports.

In the opening of the exhibition, National Library director general Elena Pintilei said the event is designed to emphasize the Library’s collections that promote the CoE policies for the Republic of Moldova. She voiced hope that the documents and publications collected at the Pro-European Services and Communication Center will contribute to improving the image of the National Library and to informing the citizens about the CoE policies for Moldova.

“The CoE, during these 23 years, has helped to transform the Republic of Moldova into a democratic and prosperous state. Our cooperation with the CoE is very diverse and covers a multitude of areas. We managed to become a party to over 92 treaties of this organization, which give protection to us, the citizens of the Republic of Moldova,” stated Tatiana Molchan, secretary of state at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integration.

According to Moldova’s Permanent Representative to the CoE Corina Calugaru, Moldova is part of this organization almost daily. “Given that we belong to this organization, we now benefit from a lot of rights,” she stated.

Acting Head of the CoE Office in Chisinau Eva Gutjahr said the Council of Europe offers technical assistance to the Moldovan authorities and defends the human rights, democracy and the rule of law. “Some of the partnership areas showed good progress in time. In other areas, many challenges are yet faced in doing reforms,” stated the official.

The exhibition will continue until August 25. Entrance is free of charge.