The accession to the European Union is an essential objective for both Moldova and Ukraine as the two countries seek to ensure peace and development at domestic level, President Maia Sandu stated in Kyiv. In a meeting with her Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky and the President of the European Council Charles Michel, the officials discussed the next steps in the process of joining the EU, IPN reports.
“It is symbolic that on this day we celebrate the tenth anniversary of the start of the protests for defending democracy and freedom on the Independence Square in central Kyiv. The courage shown then by the Ukrainians led to the collapse of the then regime despite the attempts to violently repress the protests. I today rendered homage to the Ukrainian heroes who a decade ago fought for freedom, democracy and European integration, and to those who today defend their own country and our peace,” noted President Sandu.
The official noted that ten years ago brave Ukrainians began the wave of protests known as Euromaidan. “They were rallying for a better life in Europe – free from Russia’s influence, free to decide their own future. Some made the ultimate sacrifice. I pay my deepest respects to them. Their legacy is that Ukraine today, like Moldova, is choosing a democratic European future instead of giving in to the authoritarian repression by an external force which wants to control our destiny,” said President Sandu.
She thanked her Ukrainian counterpart for the huge sacrifice that the soldiers of Ukraine are making on the battlefield to resist Russian brutality, and the sacrifice that all Ukrainians are making to keep their country free and independent.
According to President Sandu, the EU accession for both Moldova and Ukraine matters. “It would consolidate our democratic progress. It would emphasize the continent’s commitment to peace, security and solidarity. It would send a message that democracy wins over an imperial power desperately trying to recreate its sphere of influence. We know that accession is based on merit and we, like Ukraine, are committed to hard work.
“Another wave of EU enlargement is an investment in the security of the continent and a demonstration of the bloc’s unwavering commitment to peace – the very foundation on which the EU was built. The decision to open accession talks with Moldova and Ukraine soonest is a message that would be heard not just in Chisinau and Kyiv, but also in Moscow and every capital nurturing authoritarian or imperialistic ambitions. It would be a clear message of a confident Europe that is defending peace and building a robust democratic future,” said Maia Sandu.
