The public opinion in Moldova is divided between two centers of regional power amid an increased awareness of the rivalry between the European Union and the Customs Union, and also amid a lack of information, shows a study presented by the Slovakian Atlantic Commission. Asked to choose one of the two options, 44% of respondents opted for Moldova's integration in the European Union and 40% opted for the Customs Union, IPN reports

When the question was changed to allow the answer 'both', 25% chose this option, 36% chose the EU and 32% chose the Customs Union.

The study shows that Europhiles still outnumber Euroskeptics, but the former's numbers dropped by 11% from 2009, while the number of the latter increased by 10%. As regards self-perception, 2 of 5 Moldovans think EU sees Moldova as a second-rate partner. Others feel the EU sees Moldova as weak and backward.

Attending the presentation, Head of the EU Delegation to Moldova Pirkka Tapiola said that Moldovan society is moving away from the Soviet heritage and closer to a competitive environment, towards the world's largest market. “Of course, there are certain concerns – will we be strong enough? The answer is yes, you will. I think the fear of change is a current problem of Moldovan society”, he said.

Slovakia's Ambassador Robert Kirnag said that the fear of European integration is caused by the lack of information and communication. People aren't up to date with the changes that come along this path and are afraid of what they don't know. The diplomat said that Moldova will continue to receive support from Slovakia in order to avoid the latter's mistakes in the pre-accession period. He added that Moldova has no other option and joining the EU is inevitable.

The opinion poll was commissioned by the Slovakian Atlantic Commission as part of the “Extending European Dialogue with Moldova” Project. The poll surveyed 1,000 people over 18 years of age at an error margin of 3%.