Moldova remains strong on path to European integration, demands EU support - PM says

Chisinau, March 3 / MOLDPRES /- Issues related to ensuring regional security and managing the refugee crisis in the context of the war in Ukraine were the key topic of discussion by Prime Minister Natalia Gavrilița with EU High Representative and Vice-President of the European Commission Josep Borrell and European Commissioner for the Neighborhood Olivier Várhelyi, who is on a visit to Chisinau, the government's communication and protocol department has reported.

The Prime Minister reiterated that the Republic of Moldova condemns the military attack on Ukraine, and the visit of officials in the country is a strong signal of support for the efforts of the authorities to help Ukraine and the Ukrainian people cope with the war and its consequences. Since the beginning of the war, about 130,000 refugees from Ukraine have entered the country and more than 50,000 have chosen to remain in the Republic of Moldova, and their numbers are constantly growing.

"The people of Moldova have shown incredible unity and solidarity, mobilizing to help Ukrainian refugees in our country. We need assistance in managing the refugee crisis and concrete help in maintaining our economic and financial stability. We are counting on the European Union in this regard and, given the urgency of the situation, we need flexible and simplified aid mechanisms ", said Natalia Gavrilița.

In turn, the two European officials gave assurances of support and solidarity from the European Union, including announcing that in the next period the EU will allocate a financial aid of 15 million euros immediate support for the management of the refugee crisis and five million euro humanitarian aid for refugees.

At the same time, the Prime Minister mentioned that the decisions of the Moldovan authorities are based on the principle of neutrality, and are currently focused on maintaining stability in the country and managing refugee flows.

"Today, more than ever, we need strong political support and a clear European perspective. We will remain determined and steadfast on the path to European integration, "said the head of government.

The parties also discussed other issues related to the new EU macro-financial assistance agreement, the need to strengthen the energy capacity of the Republic of Moldova, but also the provision of EU assistance in the health system.

Photo: Government