Latvians and Moldovans live relatively far away from each other and speak different languages, but they are united by their willingness to protect their language, identity, and the right to have their own country, underlined Maia Sandu, President of the Republic of Moldova, while addressing Saeima MPs during the plenary sitting on Wednesday, 1 April.
In her address, she emphasised the shared historical experience of Latvia and Moldova, Russia’s threat to the democratic process, as well as Moldova’s commitment to become a member of the European Union (EU). Quoting lines from the song “Dzimtā valoda” by the band “Līvi”, written originally by the Moldovan poet Grigore Vieru, President Sandu highlighted that language, freedom, and the ability to safeguard independence are essential to the existence of a nation.
President Sandu noted that Latvia and Moldova shared the same historical experience in the 20th century. Both countries were oppressed by the totalitarian regime. Moldova was occupied, the language was banned, history was re-written, and the ties with Europe were cut in an attempt to erase the people’s identity. The consequences of the Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact will not be fully undone until every European nation has fully returned to the European family, emphasised President Sandu.
Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and the efforts to destabilise Moldova signal that the security of our region is fragile. The President of Moldova underlined that Moldova has been a “laboratory”, where Moscow experiments with methods to crush democracy—from disinformation and funding political parties to influencing elections, cyber-attacks, and organising mass protests. The threat does not always arrive dressed in Russian colours. Sometimes it is covered by a veil of doubt, exhaustion, and cynicism, said President Sandu, noting that the ability to expose and restrict manipulation is the prerequisite for the survival of every democracy.
The security of Moldova depends on the security of Ukraine. The survival of Ukrainian sovereignty is the prerequisite of Moldovan sovereignty. President Sandu also thanked Latvia for its consistent support for Ukraine since the first hours of the invasion. Moldova too continues to provide humanitarian aid, welcome Ukrainian refugees, train Ukrainian soldiers, and support Ukraine in international forums, said President Sandu.
In her address, the President of Moldova also underlined Moldova’s historic choice to become part of the EU. The people of Moldova have chosen Europe—not once, but three times within two years: at the referendum on EU membership, at the presidential election, and at the parliamentary election. Moldova is completely independent from Russian gas; it has implemented judicial reforms and implemented mechanisms for financial oversight. Moldova does is not asking for favours, but a chance to finish the journey it has already begun. That is the same opportunity that Latvia once had, noted President Sandu.
In her address, the President of Moldova called on the Saeima to continue being loud and decisive, emphasising that Latvia’s voice in Brussels carries the weight of wisdom about what is at stake. It is a voice that is being heard. President Sandu underlined that support of Moldova’s accession to the EU is not merely a matter of solidarity, but also a strategic step towards security of the entire Europe.
President Sandu concluded her address by urging Latvia to help Moldova finish its path towards integration within the EU. She noted that Moldova is almost there, but it needs help to finish the journey.
Saeima Press Service