Head of State: New Parliament must lead Moldova into European Union

President of the Republic of Moldova Maia Sandu delivered a speech today to the deputies of the XIIth Legislature Parliament, calling for unity, responsibility, and devotion to the country. In an address filled with messages about peace, democracy, and European integration, the head of state said 'Moldova is experiencing the most complicated period since independence' and that the mission of the new parliament is historic.


'We are at the beginning of a journey – in a newly elected Parliament, to which the citizens have entrusted the fate of the country for the next four years, but above all, they have entrusted it with the mission of maintaining peace in Moldova', the head of state stated, emphasizing that the new legislature carries 'the hopes and trust of the people', as well as an 'immense duty to meet their expectations'.


Maia Sandu warned that the country is going through 'the most complicated period since independence' and 'Moldova needs unity and devotion more than ever. It needs everyone who, starting today, occupies a seat in this hall to fulfill the mandate with honor, good faith and act exclusively in the interest of the Republic of Moldova'.

The head of state stressed that peace should remain the foundation of Moldova's internal and external policy.


'Peace is our most precious asset, and we all have a duty to protect it for the citizens. This is a challenging mission because the world is going through a period of deep tensions and uncertainties, and our country faces hybrid attacks meant to divide us, frighten us, and weaken us', Sandu said.


Addressing those who have served foreign interests, Sandu conveyed a stern message.

Maia Sandu advocated for a foreign policy that is 'on the side of good' and for strengthening relationships with peaceful states:


'We Moldovans, who value traditions and Christian values, must always be on the side of peace. We cannot allow our country to become a tool of the aggressor. Our solidarity with Ukrainian refugees, the courage to remain a pillar of stability in the region, have brought us appreciation and gratitude from the entire world'.


Referring to the September 28 election, the president stated that Moldovans 'chose peace, development, and the European direction', warning however against the danger of foreign influences in democratic processes:


'It is imperative that no other election is threatened by dirty money and foreign influences as it was three weeks ago. Power in our country cannot be auctioned off and acquired by those who manage to pay the most'.


Regarding judicial reform, Maia Sandu called for the completion of vetting and the strengthening of citizens' trust in the state.


'Citizens will not be able to trust their state unless the law is paramount and there is certainty that those who break it – regardless of position, status, or wealth – are held accountable. Therefore, it is important to successfully complete the judicial reform', the president said.


The head of state emphasized that the major priority of the new legislature should be European integration.


'Despite all our internal efforts, our peace, democracy, and sovereignty will not be fully protected until we complete the process of European integration. Following the citizens' vote on September 28, the new Legislature is called to fulfill the constitutional objective of bringing the country into the European Union'.


Maia Sandu urged MPs to speed up the legislative process for rapprochement with the EU.


'I call on you to contribute to the harmonization of the national legal framework with the European one and to adopt a sustained pace of adopting normative acts necessary to advance in the negotiation process, so that during the legislature beginning today, the Accession Treaty to the European Union can be signed'.


The head of state also addressed economic and social issues, calling for investments in agriculture, infrastructure, and environmental protection.


'Water issue must become a national priority – and we will need serious investments in modern irrigation systems and new technologies to face climate change. I strongly support continuing the Tree Planting Program because forests are the best shield which protects our air, soil, water, and thus, our future'.


At the end, Maia Sandu called for unity and trust:


'I know that the road ahead demands effort, patience, and courage. But our country has proven, time and again, that it knows how to rise, gather, and move forward. European integration is the way by which this dream will become reality. Let us work together, with faith, for Moldova to become a home of peace and hope for all its citizens. Good luck – and let’s get to work!'


The Parliament elected on September 28 convened today for its inaugural session.

Following the September 28 election, six political formations exceeded the electoral threshold and will enter Parliament: the Action and Solidarity Party (PAS) – 55 seats; Patriotic Bloc – 26 seats; Alternative Bloc – eight seats; Our Party – six seats; Democracy at Home Party – six seats.