A civic initiative called “Citizens for Europe”, which supports the Republic of Moldova’s efforts to join the EU, was launched in Chisinau. The group is made up of personalities from various fields, from international relations and entrepreneurship to culture, arts and sports. It aims to promote the country’s European integration and to correctly inform the public about the advantages of joining the EU.
The initiative has eight founders: former Minister of Foreign Affairs Nicu Popescu, entrepreneur Vasile Tofan, journalist and entrepreneur Nata Albot, soprano Valentina Nafornița, athlete Irina Rîngaci, journalist Alex Cozer, executive director of the Institute for Strategic Initiatives (IPIS) Vadim Pistrinciuc and president of the WatchDog community Valeriu Pasha.
The founders of the initiative say they want to actively contribute to ensuring every citizen’s access to accurate and objective information so that at the referendum on European integration on October 20, all the people can vote fully aware of the facts, having all the necessary data to make an informed and independent decision, not influenced by propaganda or manipulation.
At a press conference, ex-Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration Nicu Popescu said that only integration into the European Union can ensure a free and secure future for the citizens. “Moldova will succeed only if it firmly anchors itself in the great European family,” Nicu Popescu added.
Nata Albot, journalist and civic activist, said that the “Citizens for Europe” initiative is not involved in politics and does not have a political color. “We want to create a core of active citizens and inspire others to join us. Our duty is not only to be present at the referendum, but to also form an overwhelming majority,” she said.
“We are at a crossroads. The path we choose now will determine for future generations what kind of country we will live in. By mobilizing, we can bring Moldova into the European Union by 2030,” said entrepreneur Vasile Tofan.
Soprano Valentina Naforniță believes that the people of the Republic of Moldova deserve a better life, and the artists of the Republic of Moldova need favorable conditions to develop. This can be done through EU integration.
“An extraordinary opportunity appeared in front of us. The referendum on European integration this autumn is probably the most important event since independence. We all need to get involved in order to become part of the big European family,” stated journalist Alex Cozer.
European champion Irina Rângaci believes that it is important to unite through sport. According to the athlete, joining the EU will provide improved access to sports facilities and facilitate exchanges of experiences with sports teams across the European Union.
“I want to develop my business here, in our country. That’s why I urge everyone to mobilize and participate massively in the referendum on the European integration of the Republic of Moldova. The EU means peace and freedom and we, the small entrepreneurs, want to be part of this space,” said entrepreneur Maria Macari.
Those who wish to join the open initiative “Citizens for Europe” can do so by registering on the website: www.moldova.eu.
