Romania has invested millions of euros in modernizing infrastructure in the villages of the Republic of Moldova and will continue to provide support, assures Romania’s Ambassador to Chisinau, Cristian-Leon Turcanu. The Romanian diplomat urges Moldovan citizens not to be influenced by anyone when deciding the future of their country and to choose a president who will build a society where Moldovans abroad will want to return. Those who are here will decide to stay, IPN reports.
IPN: As the second round of presidential elections approaches, Moldovans are, in fact, at a crossroads where they must choose between a pro-European future and a pro-Russian one. Moreover, the referendum results have led to numerous interpretations and comments. Some say that the percentage that made the difference is a shameful result. While others claim it is a victory, considering the millions that Russia has poured into misinformation and propaganda campaigns in the Republic of Moldova. What is your opinion?
Cristian-Leon Turcanu: From my perspective, the referendum results are a victory. It is a victory for the Republic of Moldova but, more importantly, for each citizen. It is a choice, clearly, for a future of peace, security, and prosperity, not only for today or tomorrow but for what follows after our generation. Yes, we are facing an important event, the second round of the presidential elections, where again, the citizens of the Republic of Moldova should make a choice that will shape the future of the Republic and those living abroad. As for the referendum, it was a difficult moment during a challenging period, where every citizen of the Republic of Moldova is the target of a hybrid war consistently waged by Moscow, in which the Kremlin invests enormous resources. In these circumstances, the citizens have shown tremendous courage and wisdom in expressing their point of view.
IPN: During the public debate between the two candidates, they discussed many things, including the relationship between the Republic of Moldova and Romania. Mr. Stoianoglo stated that he was unaware of any joint regional development projects, a remark that the Romanian press considered offensive to Romania. What do you think candidate Stoianoglo intended?
Cristian-Leon Turcanu: We are in the midst of an election campaign, and as a diplomat, I cannot comment on such statements. However, I can tell you that just looking at the past ten years, Romania has funded the renovation of around 1,000 kindergartens and schools in the Republic of Moldova and financed water supply and sewage systems in rural areas, exactly where they are needed most. Anyone walking through the center of Chisinau can see the Art Museum, renovated with Romanian funds—nearly one million euros, the Organ Hall, renovated with about one million euros, and a building for the “Mihai Eminescu” high school in Comrat, built with around 800,000 euros. In Cahul, a new theater is almost completed, with construction costs nearing one million euros. These are just a few of the projects Romania has undertaken in cooperation with authorities in Chisinau in recent years, and there are many more examples.
FOR THE MOST IMPORTANT NEWS, FOLLOW US ON TWITTER!
“The progress made in the last four years is enormous.”
IPN: A criticism of the government that emerged among journalists and within civil society right after the elections concerned election fraud. Specifically, people have questioned how, during these four years of pro-European governance, the criminal network under the fugitive Ilan Shor’s patronage could flourish so significantly. Where did things go wrong?
Cristian-Leon Turcanu: Earlier, we discussed the ongoing war led by Russia. It is a serious aspect of a hybrid war. The significant resources invested by the Kremlin serve as proof of this. Over the past four years, the government in Chisinau has made remarkable progress. The reforms and modernization efforts have been significant. While some critics say more needs to be done—and they are right—the progress achieved in recent years is impressive. The European Union and the European Commission have recognized this. However, the Kremlin’s influence remains strong. During these four years, the authorities have faced many challenges and have had to respond daily to Russia’s aggressive actions, including criminal networks and propaganda. Our institutions are actively fighting against these threats every day.
“We have great admiration for the resilience of the Republic of Moldova because the pressures exerted by the Russian Federation here are reaching very high levels.”
IPN: Why do you think the propaganda machinery of the Kremlin is still functioning so well, and what lessons should we learn to become more resilient?
Cristian-Leon Turcanu: The voters have already given us the best lesson in the referendum. They demonstrated that it is possible. They found the wisdom to discern truth from lies and to choose with their hearts, souls, and minds. Russian propaganda has a long-standing tradition; it has pressured the people here for decades, and this does not happen only in the Republic of Moldova. We admire the resilience of the Republic of Moldova, because the pressures exerted by the Russian Federation reach very, very high levels here.
“I trust in the wisdom of the people here.”
IPN: Let’s imagine a scenario where most votes go to the pro-Russian candidate. What will happen in this case?
Cristian-Leon Turcanu: I trust in the wisdom of the people here. I believe that the citizens of Moldova will choose to be led by someone who can build a society and an economy that respects every citizen and encourages them to stay. To achieve this, we need a few basic things: peace, security, and prosperity. Every citizen must go out and vote, as this is their obligation to themselves, their families, and society.
IPN: What message do you have for the citizens of Moldova ahead of the second round, where the future of the country will be decided?
Cristian-Leon Turcanu: I urge all citizens to go out and vote as they believe is best. They should not vote under anyone’s influence.