Moldovan President in European Parliament

President of the Republic of Moldova Maia Sandu delivered a historic speech today in the European Parliament, discussing the importance of European solidarity, the protection of fragile democracies and Moldova's European path.


“Ladies and gentlemen, before we begin, let's remember a truth: most of your democracies were not fully established when you joined this Union. You fought against dictatorship. You overcame economic hardships. None of you did it alone. Every democracy in this room was built, supported, and protected with the help of others. Germany and France, devastated by war, chose reconciliation. Together with Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg, they laid the foundations of Europe: fragile at first, but strong together. When Ireland joined, solidarity transformed it. Denmark showed that well-established democracies also chose the Union for a secure future. Then came Southern Europe: Greece, Spain, Portugal, less than a decade after dictatorship. Their democracies were sheltered and strengthened within the Union. Austria, Finland, and Sweden followed, neutral countries that strengthened the security of Europe. Then came the great expansion from Central and Eastern Europe: Czechia, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia; in just under 15 years post-communism, they became stronger and more prosperous within the EU. Cyprus and Malta also joined, proving that no democracy is too small to matter. Romania and Bulgaria followed less than two decades after breaking from their socialist past. They still had much to build at that time, but accession gave them stability and a framework in which to grow. Croatia, scarred by war, found peace and protection within this family. Today Moldova, Ukraine and the Western Balkans are knocking on the door - living proof that the European project is flourishing. It still expands. It still protects. Moldova and Ukraine are ready to advance in accession negotiations, in a merit-based process that reflects each's progress. Both our democracies will be safer once we are part of the Union,” said Maia Sandu.


The President emphasized the importance of continued protection of democracies.


“This Union was never about perfection. It was about protecting fragile democracies until they became strong. It should remain so today. Because democracy does not come automatically. It comes after hardships. After sacrifices. And especially, with the support of friends. This is Moldova's lesson. And it is also Moldova's warning: if our democracy cannot be protected, no democracy in Europe is safe,” added the head of state.


The speech was delivered in front of President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola and MEPs, being a call for European solidarity and support for Moldova.