​PRESIDENT IOHANNIS SAYS ROMANIA SHALL DO ALL IT CAN TO BACK MOLDOVA ON ITS EUROPEAN PATH

Romania shall be doing all in its powers to support the Republic of Moldova on its European path, President of Romania Klaus Iohannis stated in Chisinau on Tuesday night at the news conference he gave together with his Moldovan colleague Nicolae Timofti.

Iohannis said that both Romania and the European Union were harboring considerable hopes concerning Moldova, including in the context of the recent parliamentary election pledges.

“I was looking forward to making my first official visit exactly to Chisinau, but it failed to happen because I had to wait until a new government is formed in Chisinau”, said Klaus Iohannis.

The President emphasized Romania is open to further political dialog and to rendering help in realization of started projects and in the Euro-integration process.

“European integration is the only guarantee of a successful future in the conditions of security, prosperity and welfare of Moldova citizens. A convincing example that this is the only variant for the Republic of Moldova’s modernization is the development of Eastern European states, including Romania. We want Romania to be a reliable and solid partner to the neighbor states – Moldova and Ukraine – on their way to Europe”, said the Romanian leader.

Klaus Iohannis voiced hope that the European path, promised to Moldova citizens during the November 30 parliamentary campaign, will be continued.

The President particularly emphasized the need for continuing reforms in the economy, finance, justice as well as struggle against corruption. Answering journalists’ questions about how Romania has managed to create independent agencies that really combat corruption, President Iohannis replied that this is achievable if two things are available – the people’s will and a political will.

“If people come to wish it and if they stand up against corruption, politicians will have to obey to the citizens’ will. This has to be done by all means because corruption affects all citizens’ wellbeing. In Romania, such firm will was shown with the assistance of European partners. I recommend Moldova to do the same”, said Klaus Iohannis.

Answering questions about his forthcoming meetings with the leaders of the three Moldovan parliamentary pro-European parties, one of which has failed to join the governing coalition, Klaus Iohannis stressed that such meetings are particularly important now, when the pressure caused by government formation is over.

“It is important for me to see how these political leaders are going to realize their election pledges to continue Moldova’s course for integration into Europe”, said President Klaus Iohannis.