MEP Barna: Moldova's EU funds at risk
The future of the Republic of Moldova depends on citizen mobilization in the autumn parliamentary elections and a firm commitment to continuing the reforms necessary for European integration, states MEP Dan Barna.
In an exclusive interview with Moldova 1, the MEP warned about the risks of Russian involvement in the parliamentary elections and the potential loss of financial support from the European Union.
Russia Funds Hybrid Warfare
Dan Barna expressed concern about Russia's meddling in the elections, comparing the situation in the Republic of Moldova to a "dangerous precedent" observed in Romania last autumn. He warned that Moscow would continue to "inject money" to influence votes and destabilize the country's European path.
"In the Republic of Moldova, during the referendum and presidential elections, it was evident how this hybrid warfare, massively funded by Russia, operates. We in Romania experienced this a year ago when a virtually unknown person almost became Romania's president. We saw the extraordinary mobilization that made it possible for Nicușor Dan to become the mayor of Bucharest. Today, I thank every Moldovan who voted for Romania to remain European and a steadfast supporter of the Republic of Moldova, as those over one hundred thousand votes truly mattered," Dan Barna remarked on Thursday evening on Moldova 1.
Every citizen's vote counts
The MEP explained that an anti-European government, resulting from external influences, could lead to the loss of substantial financial support from the European Union.
"When I talk about lessons learned, I mean the involvement of every single citizen. If each of us is aware of how important it is for the Republic of Moldova to stay on its European course, then we must go and vote. If now, in this autumn's elections, due to Russia's influence, an anti-European government comes to power that is unwilling to implement reforms or investments, all this funding risks being lost," the MEP warned.
European funds: "A real chance for development"
Referring to the Growth Plan for the Republic of Moldova, Barna emphasized that nearly two billion euros will be directed towards the country's main needs. However, he cautioned that "it's very important for Moldova not to make the same mistakes Romania made in absorbing European funds," as there is "a risk of losing funding."
"The project submitted by the Republic of Moldova and approved by the Commission clearly outlines those seven areas, be it reforms, healthcare, education, justice, or administration. As long as allocations are aligned with the funding streams decided and proposed by the Republic of Moldova and agreed upon by Brussels, there's no risk of these funds being wasted. It's crucial to act responsibly to use the money in projects that create impact and well-being. This is the expectation of every Moldovan in this country," Dan Barna further stated on the public television channel.
In another exclusive interview given to Teleradio-Moldova in Brussels, MEP Dan Barna reiterated the real opportunity for a "union of Romania with the Republic of Moldova under the umbrella of the European Union."
Translation by Iurie Tataru
