Moldovan President calls for historic vote on EU membership
Moldova's President Maia Sandu has set the stage for a pivotal national referendum in autumn 2024, placing the country's European integration aspirations directly in the hands of its citizens.
In a recent interview with Veridica.ro, Sandu declared, "This autumn, Moldovans will decide whether to move forward on the path of European integration or turn back."
The referendum, encompassing the entire nation, presents a stark choice: embrace the potential for economic and political alignment with the European Union, or chart an alternative course. Sandu emphasised the central role of citizen participation, stating, "The voice of the people will be decisive in determining Moldova's future."
This announcement reinforces Sandu's longstanding commitment to EU integration, furthered by her recent call during her three-year anniversary address for Parliament to facilitate the referendum. It reflects a vision for Moldova beyond its previous economic dependence on Russia, as exemplified by Sandu's statement, "We have freed ourselves from total dependence on Russian gas and the Russian market."
The referendum poses a crucial question for Moldova. Will it continue its journey towards closer alignment with the Western bloc, potentially unlocking new economic opportunities and political stability? Or will it seek a different path, one with potentially distinct implications for its future course. The autumn vote will serve as a defining moment for Moldova's trajectory, with the people themselves holding the power to shape the direction of their nation.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
