Russian ambassador in Bucharest: Romania has no money for "uniryu"
Vladimir Lipaev, Russian ambassador to Bucharest, claims that the idea of reunification of Romania and Moldova is unprofitable, saying that the Bucharest authorities will not be able to financially afford the process, given that “Moldova is one of the poorest countries in Europe.” writes mediafax.ro.
“Modern Moldova is one of the poorest countries in Europe, largely because of the policies of the Sandu team. Therefore, there are fears that the Romanian budget will simply not be able to cover the costs of unification. Now there is more talk about Moldova’s integration through EU accession, which would allow Bucharest to shift a significant part of the costs to its partners,” Vladimir Lipaev said.
Appeal to the past and lack of popular support
The ambassador also spoke about popular support for the idea of unification, arguing that the majority of Moldova’s population would not support the project, citing historical arguments.
“In the 20th century, Moldova experienced two Romanian occupations. The first occurred in 1918, when, taking advantage of the weakness of the young Soviet state, Romania introduced troops into Russian Bessarabia. This occupation lasted until 1940. In 1941, Romania, as part of Hitler’s coalition, participated in the aggression against the USSR and invaded Soviet Moldova. As justification, an argument, still supported by Romanian historiography, was offered about the return of allegedly illegally confiscated Romanian lands. However, Bessarabia was never part of an independent Romanian state. The memory of these events is still alive in the Moldovan people and still serves as a vaccine against the idea of unification. The majority of the population, as we know, does not support it,” the diplomat said.
Accusations of external control
As for the relations between the two states, Lipaev said Romania will have a significant influence on Moldova’s policies and institutions.
“Romania talks tirelessly about its ‘special relations’ with Moldova. Through the political elite loyal to Bucharest, the “Romanization” of society is actively pursued, literally imposed. The Romanian language is taught in schools, not Moldovan, and the history of Romanians, not Moldovans, is studied in a distorted and falsified light. Almost all leading politicians, including President Maia Sandu, hold Romanian passports. Former and current Romanian officials are appointed to key positions in the government. Bucharest has placed under its direct control the security, energy and banking systems of Moldova,” the ambassador added.
Official position
In early January, Moldovan President Maia Sandu said she would vote in favor of reunification with Romania if a referendum is held on the issue. On the issue of bi-state reunification, President Nicusor Dan also expressed similar views, but clarified that there is currently no majority. On the issue of the referendum on unification with Moldova, Prime Minister Ilie Bolhogan also spoke out, saying he would vote in favor, Mediafax reports.
