Irina Vlah was named member of the Government by a decree issued by President Nicolae Timofti. She swore a solemn oath in Chisinau on April 15 after being inaugurated as Bashkan of Gagauzia in Comrat earlier the same day, IPN reports.

Irina Vlah swore to obey the Constitution and to defend the independence, sovereignty and integrity of Moldova.

Nicolae Timofti said he is sure that Irina Vlah will promote the country’s interests, while the games aimed at dividing Moldova will end in failure.

Irina Vlah was elected as Governor of Gagauzia on March 22. She won 51% of the vote and is the first woman Bashkan and the first Bashkan elected by the first round of voting.