Russia is stepping up its hybrid attacks across Europe, but its influence is gradually waning. This is also evidenced by the outcome of Moldova’s parliamentary elections held at the end of last year, resulting in a resounding victory of the pro-European forces, said Daiga Mieriņa, Speaker of the Saeima, on Tuesday, 3 February, during her meeting with Maia Sandu, President of Moldova; Alexandru Munteanu, Prime Minister of Moldova; and Cristina Gherasimov, Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration. The Speaker of the Saeima is visiting Chisinau together with her Lithuanian and Estonian counterparts.

Speaker Mieriņa emphasised that Moldova’s EU membership would provide not only an economic and political opportunity, but also crucial tools to strengthen the Moldovan language and culture, as well as to protect democratic values.

Daiga Mieriņa shared Latvia’s experience on the path towards EU accession, noting that the enlargement process requires patience and close cooperation with candidate countries. Leaders may emerge during the integration process, but EU enlargement is a cooperation-based process. The case of Moldova, as well as Montenegro, Albania, and Ukraine, is a compelling argument against those who are still sceptical towards enlargement, underlined Speaker Mieriņa.

When discussing opportunities to expand cooperation, the Speaker of the Saeima highlighted projects in education, public administration, the regional development, and human rights. Latvia is ready to share its experience, particularly in the implementation of the regional reform, stated Speaker Mieriņa.

The Speaker of the Saeima also highlighted the importance of strengthening national defence, noting that every euro invested in Moldova’s defence is simultaneously an investment in the security of Europe as a whole.

Speaker Mieriņa addressed Moldovan officials by expressing appreciation for the courageous decisions taken to strengthen democracy and the rule of law. “Future generations will thank you for your firm stance in defending democracy through robust measures based on the rule-of-law,” said the Speaker of the Saeima, while also encouraging Moldova to share its electoral experience with Armenia, where parliamentary elections are due to be held in June this year.

The visit of Speaker Mieriņa will conclude tomorrow with a trip to the Călărași region of Moldova where she will meet with local officials, entrepreneurs, and residents to discuss regional development, as well as the opportunities and challenges associated with EU integration.

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Saeima Press Service