Political party pickets MFA headquarters demanding urgent opening of two Romanian consulates

The “European Action” Movement Party (MAE) has picketed on Tuesday, September 11, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integration headquarters, protesting against the refusal to open another two Romanian consulates in Balti and Cahul. MAE leader Anatol Petrencu considers that the ignorance of the authorities on this problem is negatively affecting Moldovan citizens, who are forced to endure terrible queues in order to obtain visas for Romania. “If the President promised, he must either keep his word or resign”, said Petrencu, in reference to President Voronin’s promise to open the consulates. MAE addressed a petition to Foreign Minister Andrei Stratan, demanding the urgent opening of the two promised consulates. Tens of MAE members took part in the protest rally, waving Moldovan and EU flags and carrying posters in support of their cause. The protesters are keen to resume protest meetings every day until Friday. Their actions are authorised by the Chisinau City Hall. The idea of opening two more Romanian consulates has emerged earlier this year, just after Romania joined the EU and introduced a visa system for the Moldovan citizens. At a previous meeting, which took place in January this year, Vladimir Voronin and Romanian President Traian Basescu have agreed to open the two consulates within 7-10 days. Later, Voronin stated: “no Romanian consulates will be opened in the near future”.