The 33rd anniversary since the proclamation of Moldova’s independence is a moment of reflection on the historical course and the future of the country, thinks EU ambassador Jānis Mažeiks. In a congratulatory message, the European official said that this year the Independence of the Republic of Moldova “takes on a new meaning, one full of hope”.

“Throughout the three decades you have had doubts, you have had to make choices, but you have also made important progress. These 33 years have shown that you have an unwavering spirit. It is the first year when Moldovans can think differently about Independence Day. Now, with the start of accession negotiations, you are on your way to becoming a member state of the European Union. And you may wonder whether, with the accession, Moldova will strengthen its independence or lose it as a EU member state. It is a question that citizens of all member and candidate countries have asked themselves, and the answer, as we have seen, is that their independence has strengthened. They have become part of a big and strong family”, noted the European ambassador.

According to Jānis Mažeiks, belonging to the European family does not diminish independence, but rather strengthens it, turning each member state into a strong and respected voice. “In this family, the voice of the youngest counts as much as the voice of the oldest. In October you will make a historic decision in a referendum – you will choose your future by deciding whether to join the European Union. This election will define the course of the country for the next generations”, said the EU ambassador.