Romanian President Welcomes Moldova’s Endeavor To Get Closer To EU

„Our major goal is to uphold what has become a major goal for you, namely to get closer and join the European Union, when Moldova is ready to take this step,” said Basescu, adding Moldova shows positive signs in this direction.

Basescu also said Moldova’s new ruling power has made it very clear over the past five months in office, that it strongly wishes to take new steps toward the European Union, which, he stressed, paves way for a partnership between Romania and Moldova, meant to bring Moldova closer to the European Union.

Basescu pointed out Moldovan citizens deserve to join the European community, as they belong to the EU.

In turn, Moldova’s interim President Mihai Ghimpu told Basescu he wants Romania to be the first country to allow, in time, the free movement of Moldovan citizens in the EU.

Basescu replied that the agreement on small-scale border traffic, recently signed between Romania and Moldova, is a huge step forward in this direction, adding the free movement must comply with the EU regulations.

Referring to Moldova’s newly established governing coalition, known as the Alliance for European Integration, Basescu cared to congratulate Moldovan authorities on the new alliance, which, he said, helped the county take new democratic steps into the future.

Ghimpu also congratulated Basescu on his re-election for a second term as president and stressed he invited the latter to Chisinau to „put an end to the political situation so far.”

Ghimpu highlighted Romania has always had in mind one thing only, that is to help Moldova in its endeavor to develop its independence and democracy, and to contribute to Moldova’s European integration.

Basescu and a delegation of six ministers will be on an official visit to the Republic of Moldova Wednesday and Thursday.

The delegation that accompanies Basescu is made up of Interior Minister Vasile Blaga, Economy Minister Adriean Videanu, Foreign Minister Theodor Baconschi, Transport Minister Radu Berceanu, Tourism Minister Elena Udrea and Justice Minister Catalin Predoiu, state secretary for relations with Romanians abroad Eugen Tomac, lawmakers Viorel-Riceard Badea and Tudor Pantiru and Iasi County Council president Constantin Simirad.