The representatives of the civic organisations “Pro Moldova” and “Plai Natal” have announced the intention to form a social-political movement, called “Patriotii Moldovei” (Moldova’s Patriots). The organisation describes itself as a centre-left party, sharing the principles of social democracy. Vasile Stati, a member of the initiative group for the foundation of the Movement, has told a news conference today that one of the basic goals of the party will be to “end the decay of nationality and citizenship among the population of the country”. Asked to comment on this goal, Stati cited the most recent census which shows that Moldova is home to more than 3 million Moldovans. However, schools, kindergartens, and other educational institutions have turned into “factories for making little Romanians”. “We want things back to normal. The nation has the right to its Moldovan spirit, which one could freely and democratically enjoy”, explained Stati. The members of the initiative group denied the allegations that the new party chose a position that would comfort the ruling party, and expressed trust that it would find itself a place on the political landscape, outside PCRM. When asked about the Movement’s vision on European integration, Vasile Stati said the Movement supports the idea, deriving from the fact that Moldova, geographically speaking, is part of Europe. “It would be a mistake to say no to European integration and run to Asia. Of course we adhere to this course, which is backed by the largest part of the population, with the mention, however, that we must set the conditions for joining the EU”, said Stati. Speaking on the Transnistria settlement, Vasile Stati pointed out that “Moldova’s Patriots” are ready to accept any democratic agreement “in order to bring things back to normal”, adding that the Movement supports the idea of a confederative formula, advocated earlier by other parties. Asked to opine on the relationship with Romania, Vasile Stati said that these should be good, but without “long kissing and hugging sessions”. “Democracy means when pro-Russian and pro-Romanian citizens of Moldova are treated equally”, said Stati, adding that one-third of the country’s population has Slavic roots. “Moldova’s Patriots” also commit to defend the Moldovan religious space of the interference of certain “foreign agents wearing robes”. Stati made reference to the clergy of the Bessarabian Metropolitan Church, which he labelled “propagandistic agents” paid by the Romanian Government to destabilise the situation in the Republic of Moldova.