The traditions, culture and the freedom of religion in Moldova will only develop if Moldova becomes integrated into the EU, said invitees to the program “Fabrika” on Publika TV channel. The participants expressed their disagreement with anti-European political parties’ assertions that the European integration of Moldova will lead to the disappearance of the Orthodox religion and the Moldovan traditions, IPN reports.

Dean of the Faculty of History of the Teacher Training University “Ion Creanga” Sergiu Musteata considers that the Moldovans have yet many things to learn as regards religious tolerance. “It is about the mutual respect between neighbors. We will only gain from this association. We must respect each other and learn from each other,” stated the dean.

Writer and director of the Romanian Cultural Institute Valeriu Matei said the Orthodox religion, as other religions, will be better protected. “Religious freedom is a value in the EU. The cultural heritage also represents a value. The cultural patrimony is very well protected. Religion forms part of culture. Romania, Bulgaria, Greece and Cyprus are also Orthodox countries and they didn’t face problems. On the contrary, Moldova will receive European funds to renovate churches that form part of the cultural heritage,” he said.

The participants said Moldova has a vast cultural patrimony, while the cultural integration into the EU started long ago. “We integrated culturally into the EU after the proclamation of independence. The Moldovans have what to learn from the Europeans in terms of general culture. The cemeteries are a relevant example. The Europeans take care of cemeteries permanently and visit them regularly,” stated Valeriu Matei.

The invitees of the program concluded that the cultural policy of the EU is different, while cultural diversity is preserved. Every EU member state is respected.