World War II victims commemorated by Moldovan speaker

Speaker Igor Grosu together with Head of State Maia Sandu, Prime Minister Dorin Recean, European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos, MPs, ministers and veterans laid flowers at Eternity memorial complex in the capital. The officials paid tribute to the victims of World War II, who sacrificed themselves and fought for peace.

"Today and every day we pay homage to those who gave their lives in that war. Our forefathers - grandparents, great-grandparents - sacrificed themselves so that future generations could live in peace, freedom and prosperity. It is our duty to defend these hard-won values and to remain united in the service of all our citizens," he said.

He expressed gratitude to the 25 veterans who are still alive, thanking them for courage and sincere desire for peace. "Let us never forget their sacrifice. We wish the veterans who are still alive health and thank them from the bottom of our hearts for their courage and sincere desire for peace," said Grosu.

Hundreds gathered today, in the rain, at the memorial to commemorate those who sacrificed their lives in the cruelest and bloodiest war of the 20th century.

"Today is a day with double significance for Europe and for the entire world. After May 8, 1945, was announced as the victory against Nazism, May 9, 1945, was the first day of peace after years of suffering and destruction. The victory of peace brought hope for future built on freedom, dignity and solidarity among nations. We gather to commemorate one of the most painful pages in human history - World War II, a war in which over 70 million people died. Peace and victory against tyranny were possible due to the courage and sacrifice of our forefathers as well as the unity demonstrated by the countries of the world that opposed Nazism," President Maia Sandu said.

This year we mark 80 years since the victory over fascism. On this occasion, the Parliament recently passed a bill providing financial support of 30,000 lei to World War II veterans, in recognition of their sacrifice and dedication.