President on launch of Moldova 3

President Maia Sandu said in an interview with Radio France Internationale that she supports the launch of the new national TV channel Moldova 3, with programs in Russian.

The President noted that she followed the public discussions on the issue.


"It is natural to have these discussions and probably we can improve this proposal. But we have a large number of citizens who do not understand Romanian. I personally have promoted and continue to promote a Romanian language learning program, in which people can enroll and learn Romanian without paying for it. However, at the same time, we have a reality, and as long as these people have no source for information in Russian, their only option is the sources of information from Moscow. We know that these sources do not promote objective information and do not wish well for the Republic of Moldova," said Sandu.


She added that now the authorities will have to focus on the quality of information.


"I don't see a problem in the state investing in a program at the national television, which is only in Russian. We must make efforts also in learning the Romanian language, but we must ensure that people have access to objective information offered by the Republic of Moldova, so as not to rely on Russian information from Kremlin sources," added Sandu.


The head of state said that the programs and news in Russian on Moldova 1 are not enough.


"It is not enough because it is more complicated to expect people to wait for an exact hour to tune in to the national television. Usually, people watch a television channel, especially for those who really do not understand Romanian. We cannot expect them to be so serious and open as to follow a few programs that are in Russian. The new channel is coming to combat disinformation," concluded Sandu.


A new draft law was registered on 12 March in Parliament, proposing that the National Television also broadcasts in Russian, to ensure Russian speakers' access to official and correct information. The initiative belongs to PAS deputies, Eugen Sinchevici and Natalia Davidovici.