Today the European Union celebrates the 70th anniversary of the founding of the United Europe. On this occasion, EU Ambassador to Moldova Peter Michalko, in his name and the name of the ambassadors of the Member States of the European Union, transmitted a message of solidarity even if this day could not be celebrated in public places, IPN reports.
“This Europe Day we celebrate at home. We are proud of the fact that that we are the European Union and of what we do. The European Union is present here for our partners, for the people of the Republic of Moldova. United we will be ready to overcome the crisis and to ensure happiness, prosperity, a sustainable future, a cleaner and more ecological world, free and equitable trade, liberty, human rights and democracy. United we are near you! This day belongs to all of us. We are stronger together. Long live the European Union, long live the Republic of Moldova!” Peter Michalko said in a video.
The ambassador noted the political association and economic integration of the Republic of Moldova with the European Union should be proven by will and by capacity to continue this path and each day on this course brings real benefits to the people. The EU is the biggest supporter of the Republic of Moldova. In this difficult times of pandemic crisis, the European Union is solidary with the citizens of the Republic of Moldova and centers on their wellbeing and future, including by providing financial and non-monetary support to the national health system.
Peter Michalko said the Association Agreement and the Free Trade Agreement between the EU and Moldova define a very close partnership. A week ago, there was celebrated the sixth anniversary of the liberalized visa regime that enables the Moldovan citizens to easier travel in the EU Member States. More than 2 million persons used this possibility. Owing to the DCFTA, companies and people in Moldova gained higher incomes from increased trade, investments, modernization of the economy and the country’s institutions.
“The EU supports multiple projects to improve the infrastructure and this year will bring big challenges for us all, with an enormous impact on economic activity, trade, incomes of families and social welfare. It is important for us to recover from this crisis proud of ourselves,” stated he diplomat.
Peter Michalko also said that the EU firmly supports the not yet implemented reforms that are so necessary and awaited by Moldovans. The fundamental areas for society that affect the daily activity include the justice sector, the rule of law, democracy, electoral standards and press freedom. Integrity, transparency and the fight against corruption should continue, while civil society should enjoy support and instruments for making those who are in power more responsible. The ambassador expressed his gratitude to those who fight the pandemic in the front line and those who are vulnerable in this pandemic crisis.
Europe Day or Schuman Day is annually marked by the European community and the partner states on May 9. The holiday was instituted in memory of the French Minister of Foreign Affairs Robert Schuman, who is considered the initiator of the foundation of the European Union.
