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Ursula von der Leyen: I encourage Moldovans to use their vote and express their free choice


https://www.ipn.md/en/ursula-von-der-leyen-i-encourage-moldovans-to-use-their-7965_1107933.html

Moldova’s place is in the European Union, said the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, who is on an official visit to Chisinau. According to her, very soon the Moldovan citizens will meet at polling stations to decide the future of the Republic of Moldova and the Constitution. “I encourage Moldovans to use their vote and express their free choice. It is for you, the Moldovans, to decide. It is your sovereign choice what to do with your country and no one can interfere in this choice,” stated Ursula von der Leyen, quoted by IPN.

In a briefing with reporters, the European official said that the Republic of Moldova has made remarkable progress. “You completed a number of steps forward. You managed to initiate important justice reforms. You have intensified the fight against corruption and worked hard to eliminate oligarchs from your economy and society. All these show your attachment to our common values – values that represent respect for democracy and the rule of law,” said the President of the European Commission.

The President of the Republic of Moldova thanked for the support provided to the Republic of Moldova in all these years. “Your visit comes at a crucial time for our country. For us, the European Union is not only an important economic partner, but also a true family of peace and security, and we work tirelessly to become part of this family,” stressed Maia Sandu.

The head of state also said that Moldova’s partnership with the EU means concrete benefits for the Moldovan citizens. “The EU’s support through the temporary abolition of customs duties for seven agricultural products of Moldova allowed us to become the main exporter of plums to the European Union market. In fact, over 65% of Moldovan products reach Europe today, clearly showing where the economic interests of our country lie,” said President Sandu.

The official noted that the support of the European Union in these difficult years has demonstrated that solidarity is the foundation on which the EU was built and functions. “The citizens of the Republic of Moldova, regardless of ethnicity, language spoken or political vision, want a safe life in a peaceful and free state. That is why we want to be part of the EU because the European Union is first and foremost a family of peace and unity, where the member countries are treated with respect," stated Maia Sandu.