Moldova and Ukraine have the same aspirations - to be part of the big European family, in a free, democratic and prosperous world, and with the help provided by the U.S., of US$61 billion, Ukraine will continue fighting against the Russian aggression and will also contribute to regional security, including of Moldova. The statements were made at a joint press conference by the Deputy Speaker of Moldova’s Parliament Doina German and the Deputy Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Olena Kondratiuk, who is on a visit to Chisinau, IPN reports.
Doina German assured that Moldova from the first day has stood in solidarity with Ukraine and the Ukrainian people. It unequivocally condemned the Russian invasion and provided constant support, both diplomatically, humanitarianly and politically. Moldova continues offering support to the 117,000 Ukrainian refugees in Moldova, especially women with children.
Doina German reminded that the mechanism for providing temporary protection to Ukrainian refugees was launched on March 1, 2023 and on March 1 this year, it was extended by another year. This means ensuring of the Ukrainian citizens’ access to fundamental rights, education and medicine, protection against abuses, exploitation and discrimination. In 2023, over 1.6 million tonnes of goods, especially grain, transited Moldova to the EU. Moldova and Ukraine are strengthening their transport infrastructure. After 25 years, the Basarabeasca – Berezino railway section was reopened.
The Moldovan official also said that Moldova and Ukraine have very good bilateral relations, with a dynamic political dialogue. Both countries have the same aspirations and the same path - the European path.
For her part, Olena Kondratiuk said that Ukraine wants a declaration on justice to be adopted in Moldova’s Parliament. More specifically, a statement condemning the Russian Federation for illegally deporting Ukrainian children. There were identified about 20,000 children who were forcibly transferred from the territory of Ukraine. For Ukraine, it is important that the issue of forced transportation of Ukrainian children to Russia should resound so that as many children as possible can be returned home. It is important for the Moldovan Parliament to adopt such a declaration.
Olena Kondratiuk also said that it is important for Ukraine to continue the policy of sanctions for Russia so that the frozen assets of the Russian Federation are used for the reconstruction of Ukraine. She underlined the importance of countering disinformation, noting that this is also important for Moldova given the upcoming election and referendum.
The Deputy Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine added that the integration into the EU is enshrined in the Constitution of Ukraine. She is confident that both Ukraine and Moldova will become members of the EU.
