“Let’s remember one truth: most of your democracies were not finalized when you joined the EU. You were fighting dictatorships. Overcame economic difficulties. And none of you did it alone. Each of the democracies represented in this room was created, supported and protected by other democracies,” said Maia Sandu during her speech at the European Parliament.
She recalled the stages of EU enlargement – from post-war Europe to the countries of the former socialist bloc. And the EU has always helped strengthen new democracies and united even small states.
“And today Moldova, Ukraine and the Western Balkans are standing at the threshold – and this is a clear proof that the European project is developing,” the Moldovan president said. – Still expanding. It still provides protection. Both Moldova and Ukraine are ready to move to the next phase of negotiations through a merit-based process that reflects our progress. And both our democracies will be safer once we are part of the Union.”
Sandu emphasized the fundamental mission of the EU: “This is why I say: the EU has never been about perfection, it was created to protect – to protect fragile democracies, to protect them until they get stronger. And so it must continue to be today. Because democracy does not arise on its own. It comes as a result of hard work. It comes through adversity. But above all, with the support of friends.”
She called it a lesson for Moldova, but also a warning: “if we cannot keep our democracy safe, then no democracy in Europe can be safe”.
“Moldova cannot change its geographical position. And we are feeling the brunt of Russian aggression. We share a border with Ukraine – 1,200 kilometers long – longer than any of your countries. And the reason Moldova is still at peace today is because Ukraine is fighting back. Ukrainians are fighting to defend their country and their freedom, but they are also defending Moldova. And we owe them our peaceful existence. But their sacrifice is also a reminder that peace can never be guaranteed. That is why our European path is not only a question of values, but also a question of survival itself,” said Maia Sandu.
In Strasbourg, the President met with the Secretary General of the Council of Europe Alain Berset to discuss the strengthening of cooperation in the spheres of democracy, human rights and the rule of law in the region.
During September 10-12, the head of state is in Italy. On Wednesday, Maia Sandu held meetings with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Senate President Ignazio La Russa.
At the Vatican, the Moldovan president will be received for an audience by His Holiness Pope Leo XIV. According to the Moldovan head of state’s press service, the sides will exchange opinions on the promotion of peace, solidarity and Christian values in a world full of various challenges.
