The people of Moldova’s Gagauz Autonomy today celebrate their national holiday Hederlez, which symbolizes the beginning of a new agricultural season. On Hederlez, Gagauz customs, folk costumes, traditional occupations and cuisine come to unite people of different ethnicities, cultures and faiths, people whose hearts beat in unison for peace and well-being, President Maia Sandu said in a congratulatory message addressed to the Gagauz people.
Prime Minister Natalia Gavrilița attended the festive event organized on the occasion of the national holiday and stressed the importance of maintaining social cohesion and friendly relations with Moldovan communities. “Even though we are now facing many difficulties, we can be proud of the fact that in our country we have always celebrated and appreciated the contribution of each community to the cultural life of the Republic of Moldova. The motto of the European Union - unity in diversity - has long been a reality in our country, where dialogue and mutual respect are the cornerstones of our social cohesion”, said Natalia Gavrilița.
Gagauzia’s Governor Irina Vlah also stressed that the unity of the Gagauz people will contribute to the prosperity of the Republic of Moldova. “We are all very different, but at the same time, many things unite us together - our traditions and our love for the Republic of Moldova. People who speak different languages, love this land in the same way and I really want our country to live in peace and understanding ,” said Vlah.
Hederlez, per the Gregorian calendar, falls on May 6. The period between May 6 and November 17 is considered the summer days of Hizir, and between November 18 and May 5 are the days of Kasım, ie the winter days. Due to this, it is considered that May 6 is the beginning of summer days.
