EU's doors open for Moldova: leaders of France, Germany, Poland send strong messages of support for Moldova

Three of Europe's most influential leaders – French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk – today arrived in Chisinau, in order to deliver a strong message of support for Moldova's European integration process. The three leaders mingled with the crowd and addressed thousands of Moldovans gathered at the concert organized for Independence Day on the Great National Assembly Square (PMAN).

French President Emmanuel Macron greeted the thousands gathered on PMAN in Romanian, stating, "The Republic of Moldova will be stronger in Europe" and that it is already part of the European family.

"Thanks to you, tonight the heart of Europe beats stronger than ever in Chișinău! Moldova will also be stronger and more prosperous in Europe. The Republic of Moldova can be proud of the journey it has taken since Independence. You are already part of our European family and you enjoy the support and respect of Europeans. Europe means unity through diversity; it is a project of peace and solidarity serving all citizens. The EU will be stronger together with Moldova and Moldova will also be more prosperous in the EU. Together, we will write a new chapter in the history of Moldova and Europe. That's why, we stand with you today, alongside Maia Sandu, who has bravely fought from the first day for a strong, democratic Moldova anchored in the EU. Long live the Republic of Moldova! Long live Europe! Long live Moldova in Europe!" said the French leader, emphasizing that the European Union will be more united and prosperous together with Moldova.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz noted that Germany quickly recognized the Republic of Moldova in 1991, and since then, a solid partnership has been built, which will continue for many years to come.

"Germany and the European Union stand firmly by the Republic of Moldova, and the common goal is Moldova's accession to the European Union. The European Union is not perfect, and yes, sometimes it is complicated. But the European Union has kept its promise of peace, freedom and prosperity in Europe. We view Moldova as a close partner in this common European project. You are part of the European family," said Merz, reiterating Berlin's support for Moldova's accession to the European Union.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk spoke in Romanian, drawing applause from the crowd. He said that Moldovans had proved courage and unity in defending freedom and European values.

"Do not squander what you have built. Moldova's future is in the European Union. When a people is united and brave, no empire can defeat it. You have shown the whole world that you already live by European values. The future of the Republic of Moldova is in the EU, and we, the Poles, will stand by you. What you have already achieved is an impressive result. Happy Independence Day, Moldova!" declared Tusk, reminding of Poland's firm support for the country's European path.

The final speech on the Great National Assembly Square was delivered by President Maia Sandu, who was applauded for several minutes. She thanked the European partners for their support and openness.

"Dear friends, 34 years ago, right here in this square, with many of you or with your parents and grandparents, we marveled at the fact that the Republic of Moldova had become free. We rejoiced in speaking Romanian and knowing we were no longer isolated, as the whole world opened up to us. We then broke free from a totalitarian regime. These 34 years have not been easy: we have faced hardships, but we have learned and grown together. Today, we are proud of our achievements. We have shown that we are brave, that we defend our freedom every day, that we work honestly and stand in solidarity. Moldova is today called a small country with a big heart. We have proven to be reliable partners and for this reason, we have such valuable friends. We have succeeded in putting Moldova on the path to European integration. Because we want and deserve to live in peace and bring Europe home. We are strong because we are united and because we have extraordinary friends. It is our duty to our parents and grandparents, who regained our freedom and our duty to our children to build a European Moldova, where everyone knows they can develop and grow, care for our country, love it, and protect it every day. Happy Independence Day, Moldova!" said the president.

Today, the Republic of Moldova celebrates the 34th anniversary of Independence with a historic event, hosting French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk – three European leaders who have come to firmly support the country's European future.

The presence of European leaders on national day is a powerful signal of friendship and respect for Moldova’s people, as well as clear confirmation that the European path of the Republic of Moldova is not a distant dream, but a currently unfolding joint project.

The visit of the three leaders concludes this evening.