Moldova's Foreign Minister Confident EU Accession Referendum Will Succeed

Mihai Popșoi, Moldova's Minister of Foreign Affairs, has expressed confidence that the upcoming referendum on European Union accession will be successful, despite potential interference from the Kremlin. In recent statements, Popșoi emphasized the importance of properly informing citizens about the referendum and its implications for the country's future.

"The authorities are doing everything possible to properly inform citizens about the upcoming referendum on EU accession," Popșoi said. He acknowledged that the Kremlin will likely attempt to finance various efforts to divert Moldova from its European path, but he believes that with critical thinking, citizens will be able to distinguish between truth and propaganda.

Popșoi stressed the significance of the referendum, calling it vital for Moldova's future and strategic development. "This referendum is about the strategic future and development of the country," he stated. "I call on all citizens and pro-European parties to get involved in the process." "The results of this referendum will determine the future of Moldova's children and grandchildren, and the chance for European integration is too important to be missed," Popșoi added.

The upcoming referendum follows an announcement by Moldova's pro-Western president, Maia Sandu, who declared her intention to seek re-election in 2024 and called on parliament to organize the referendum on potential EU accession. The European Union recently decided to open membership negotiations with Moldova and Ukraine, while granting candidacy status to Georgia.

Why this matters: The outcome of Moldova's EU accession referendum will have significant implications for the country's geopolitical alignment and future development. As a small nation situated between the European Union and Russia, Moldova's decision could impact regional stability and influence the ongoing tensions between the West and Moscow.

Sandu has emphasized that Moldova's future lies within the European family, stating that the voice of citizens will be decisive in the referendum. Prime Minister Dorin Recean echoed these sentiments, affirming that Moldova's future is in the EU. However, former pro-Moscow president Igor Dodon criticized Sandu's announcement, claiming that she has nothing to offer but a referendum to save herself from political drowning.

Popșoi contrasted the upcoming referendum with previous ones, arguing that past referendums failed because they were organized for political purposes and driven by oligarchic interests. He emphasized that the current referendum is focused on the country's strategic future and development, urging responsible politicians to prioritize citizens' interests. "The outcome of the upcoming elections will determine 'how our children and grandchildren will live,'" Popșoi stated, underscoring the importance of Moldova's chance for European integration.

Key Takeaways

• Moldova's FM confident EU accession referendum will succeed despite Kremlin interference.
• Authorities aim to properly inform citizens about referendum and its implications for Moldova.
• Referendum is vital for Moldova's future and strategic development, says FM Popșoi.
• Referendum follows Moldova's pro-Western president's announcement to seek re-election in 2024.
• Outcome of referendum will impact Moldova's geopolitical alignment and regional stability.