“Moldova has done and will continue to do everything possible to help Ukraine”
His speech is part of this year’s graduation ceremony at Harvard Kennedy School, which takes place with the physical presence after two years in which the ceremonies took place in virtual format due to the pandemic.
“I did not plan to become a politician or president. So be prepared for amazing experiences and destinations “, the head of state mentioned at the beginning of the speech.
“Four years ago, when I received my letter of admission from Harvard Kennedy School, I never thought that one day I would go on stage and address graduates. Just like I didn’t plan on becoming a politician or a country president. So be aware and prepare for the journey that will take you to unexpected places and destinations “, said Maia Sandu at the beginning of the speech.
The head of state spoke about the situation in the Republic of Moldova, the fight against corruption, but also about the lessons learned about his career.
“Moldova is a small country located in a harsh geopolitical neighborhood. Today we have a war on our border. There can be no justification for Russia’s war against Ukraine, or any other sovereign nation, for capturing territories or cutting off spheres of influence in the 21st century.
The people of Ukraine are going through a tragedy hard to imagine. Through their courage, resilience and sacrifice, the brave Ukrainians have shown that they are strong, courageous and powerful people who will retain the right to govern themselves. Through their sacrifice, they defend the entire European continent and its values and principles. And we’re grateful for that.
Moldova has done and will continue to do its best to help. 4% of our population today are refugees from Ukraine. Nine out of 10 refugees were housed by Moldovans in their homes, just before the government provided facilities.
The whole country is united to provide support with everything it could offer them – safety, shelter, housing, food, medical care, childcare.
The compassion, respect and kindness found by Moldovans make me very proud of my people. The Government of the Republic of Moldova will make every effort to continue this support.
The war had a heavy toll on Moldova. Resources are running out. But despite all the difficulties, we are determined to succeed.
People, both in the country and abroad, are our most valuable resources and do not remain our main life expectancy.
Our great diaspora offers great support to our country. Their work and sacrifice have supported Moldova economically, and the money they send home is supported by many Moldovan families.
Many of them hold important middle and high level positions in corporations, governments and scientific communities abroad. We rely on their help in reforming Moldova to make it eligible for EU membership, which is our main national project.
Today, Moldova will obtain the status of the candidate country for the European Union, which will help to block the future of Moldova in a family of consolidated democracies, a European family.
Obtaining EU candidate status is an anchor for our independence, peaceful development, economic and political reforms. We know we have to work hard for this, but we are not fully committed. “