The members of the Orhei Local Organization of the Association of Veterans and Pensioners of the Ministry of Internal Affairs declare their support for the national constitutional referendum of October 20. The veterans say that European integration is not a political choice, but a vital necessity to ensure the continuity of the Republic of Moldova, its identity and independence. According to them, Europe means not just a common market or a place where the laws are better, but it also means a community of values which provides protection against instability. Europe means more than rules and standards. It is the place where human dignity is respected, and the state works for the citizen.

In a news conference hosted by IPN, veteran Ion Mustață said the membership in the European Union will provide wider possibilities for trade and investment, which will stimulate the growth of the national economy. Also, the EU membership will involve the adoption of a set of European standards and rules, which could contribute to improving the quality of life in Moldova.

“If it joins the EU, the Republic of Moldova will benefit from a higher level of security and stability and will have the possibility of cooperating with member states within the framework of the Common Security and Defense Policy. We, the veterans, deeply feel Moldova’s vulnerability in the face of external pressures. We understand that, without a clear direction and without strong allies, any progress can be erased by a new crisis, whether it comes from the East or from within society. That’s why, for us European integration is not only a geopolitical option, but is a safe way for the Republic of Moldova not to fall prey to regional power games. Being part of the European Union means being part of a construct of stability, peace and prosperity, where fundamental freedoms are protected... I urge you, dear citizens, to support the referendum on European integration,” said Ion Mustață, reading the statement of the organization.

Ion Savin, head of Orhei Local Organization of the Association of Veterans and Pensioners of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, said that since the dissolution of the Soviet Union, from their service positions, from the first days of the proclamation of sovereignty and later of the independence of the Republic of Moldova, the veterans have contributed to the protection of human rights and freedoms, to the defense of security and public order, to the fight against crime.

“We should no longer be thrown from one extreme to another every four years. The time has come for the awakening and unification of the entire society. The dream and the goal for which we fought in the spring-summer of 1992 can be fulfilled through voting, not through blood and suffering. On October 20, 2024, we all go to the polls to vote for integration into the European Union. This vote will be as an inheritance left to our children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren,” stated Ion Savin.

Note: IPN Agency offers the right of reply to persons who consider that they were targeted in the articles produced based on the statements of the organizers of this press conference, including by facilitating the organization of another press conference in similar conditions.