By accepting the status of observer at the Eurasian Economic Union, Moldova aligned itself to a development model dominated by a state that has series image problems in its relationship with the West and the rest of the world, said Sławomir Dębski, director of the Polish Institute of International Affairs. In an interview for Radio Free Europe’s Moldovan Service, the expert said the so-called Eurasian Economic Union patronized by Russia is based on violence, IPN reports.
“The European integration model is based on the self-determination of nations and free will of societies that can choose the development model they consider better for them, while the so-called Eurasian Economic Union patronized by Russia is sooner or later based on violence. If you refuse the Russian development model and opt for a European one, and we saw this in 2013-2014, you can face blackmail on the part of Russia or even a military invasion,” stated Sławomir Dębski.
The Institute’s director noted these are two very different development models. The European Union is based on economic integration, rule of law, democracy and human rights. It proved that it is the best development model for nations. On the other side, there is a development model generated by the close interaction between the political class, business and crime.
“So, we have a model that has to resort to fakes to attract other states. This was generally our experience with the Eurasian Union and this thing we can see not only in Ukraine, which, as we know, opposed the idea of becoming a member of the Eurasian Union. When it did so, Russia resorted to economic blackmail and introduced sanctions against Ukraine and ultimately started a war against this county to stop the Ukrainian movement towards this body that could ensure conditions for a better life,” stated Sławomir Dębski, noting that the same happened in Belarus, but the experience of an aggression or war didn’t exist there.
As to the status of observer, the expert said sometimes the countries do this to be able to have an eye on what is happening inside. If the motivation of the President of Moldova is to learn how this system works and watch out, the risk that results from the involvement in this system is limited. “If you close the eyes and become influenced by the illusion that this model can lead to a faster development and that can give some additional stimuli for raising the living standards of the people in your country, you should be very attentive. Don’t have illusions please,” stated Sławomir Dębski.
