The people of the Gagauz autonomy have been ignored by Chisinau authorities for 20 years, but they have finally been heard thanks to last year's referendum. The opinion was voiced by Valeriu Ostalep, head of the Institute of Diplomatic, Political and Security Studies, during the Pahomi talk-show on Realitatea TV, IPN reports.

“The people in Gagauzia know what they want, but don't have anyone to listen to them. 99% of them are good patriots and want a strong state – the Republic of Moldova. But they are ignored by authorities. They are criticized for not knowing the Romanian language, but the government in Chisinau did nothing for this. Thanks to last year's referendum, they have been heard not only by Chisinau, but by the US and the EU as well. I hope the government leaders will understand they have to travel to Comrat and Balti more often”, explained Ostalep.

He thinks that central authorities should focus on economic development. “The southern region is in serious economic trouble, especially the Taraclia and Vulcanesti districts. There are no prospects for economic development there. There is no concept for the development of the Gagauz autonomy, because there is no one to do it. In Chisinau, we don't have politicians who think on bigger, national level”, said Ostalep.