EUROPE DAY // Latvia urges Moldovans to take over Latvian experience on road to EU, inspired by Moldovan departed poet's poetry in fight for freedom

Ambassador of Latvia to Moldova Edgars Bondars is calling on Moldovan citizens to take over inspiration from Latvia’s experience in the process of joining the European Union, just as, during the years of National Revival, Latvia was inspired by Grigore Vieru’s poetry in its struggle for freedom. In a video message addressed to the citizens of Moldova on the occasion of Europe Day, the Latvian ambassador stressed that the EU means, first and foremost, peace and the rule of law without corruption.

“We Latvians were inspired by the spirit of the great Grigore Vieru. His poem ‘In Your Language’ became for us a symbol of cultural resistance during the Singing Revolution. Just as his words gave us strength, we hope that our European experience will inspire you as well. We are proud of your courage and we assure you that our future is together,” the ambassador said.

Edgars Bondars also referred to solidarity among European states in the current security context, underlining that the European Union means, above all, peace, the rule of law, and the rejection of corruption and imperialism.

In conclusion, the Latvian ambassador conveyed an emotional message of support for Moldova, sharing a traditional wish from his country:

“In Latvia, we have an old blessing: may you live as long as the sun lives. Today, we say with all our hearts: may Moldova live as long as the sun lives,” said Edgars Bondars.

Moldova is celebrating Europe Day through a string of events organized by the Delegation of the European Union. In the center of the capital, the European Town has been opened, where Moldovan citizens can learn more about the cultures of European states, as well as about EU‑funded projects implemented in Moldova. Messages of congratulations and encouragement have been addressed to Moldovans by the European Council President António Costa, EU Ambassador to Moldova Iwona Piórko, as well as all ambassadors of EU member states.