Moldovan president visits Cahul city, congratulates locals on 523rd anniversary of settlement's first documentary mention

President Maia Sandu on 2 July paid a working visit to southern Cahul city, where she participated in the celebration of 523rd anniversary of the city’s first documentary mention and in the opening of the International Folklore Festival, White Lily.

“Folklore stays a meeting point for people – through music, dance and traditional costume. Cahul has a rich history a cultural heritage to be proud of, and, above all, hospitable and hardworking people,” said the head of state.

Now in its 18th edition, the White Lily Festival brings together folklore ensembles, dancers and artists from more countries, who during July 2-5 will promote traditional culture through music, dance and folk costumes.

During the visit, the Moldovan president had more meetings with local and district public authorities and entrepreneurs from the district. The discussions focused on the modernization of localities, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as the economic development of the region.

President Maia Sandu also visited the business of Victor Șcraba, who, after 13 years of working abroad, ruled to return home. He has recently opened the first artisanal gelato shop in the city, alongside a team of six employees.

Cahul is one of the districts that have benefited from the most substantial investments in recent years – almost half a billion lei was allocated through various development programmes, especially from European funds. Such projects as the redevelopment of the central park, the full modernization of public lighting and the renovation of the Sports School have been implemented in the city.

Over 70 projects, with a total value of 218 million lei, have been implemented in the district through the European Village I and II programmes – from water and sewage networks to kindergartens, schools, community centers and repaired roads.

Significant investments were also made in education, road infrastructure, energy efficiency and supporting local entrepreneurship. An example in this regard is the INOTEK Innovation Center, visited by the President – a project in which the European Union invested 1.5 million euros.