Moldova's Resounding 'Yes' to Europe — and 'No' to Russia
In a decisive victory for pro-European forces, the Action and Solidarity (PAS) party retained its absolute majority in Moldova's parliamentary election on Sunday. The ruling party secured just over 50% of the vote, defying pre-election opinion polls that predicted a tighter contest.
According to official results, PAS won 55 out of 101 seats in parliament, despite losing eight seats compared to the previous election. The pro-Russian Patriotic Electoral Bloc alliance led by former President Igor Dodon trailed far behind with just 24% of the vote.
"We are proud of our people's choice," said PAS leader and Moldovan President Maia Sandu in a statement. "This result is a clear message that our country wants to move closer to Europe, not back towards Russia."
The election outcome has significant implications for Moldova's foreign policy and economic relations with its neighbors. The pro-European orientation of the new parliament is likely to strengthen ties with the European Union and NATO.
However, not everyone is pleased with the result. Igor Dodon, leader of the Patriotic Electoral Bloc, expressed disappointment at his party's performance. "We did our best, but it seems that the people have been misled by false promises," he said.
The Alternative political alliance, led by Mayor of Chisinau Ion Ceban, secured around 8% of the vote and is expected to join a coalition government with PAS. The party has been criticized for its ambiguous stance on European integration and alleged ties to Russia.
Moldova's pro-Russian parties have long been accused of promoting Moscow's interests in the country. Critics argue that these parties have hindered Moldova's progress towards EU membership and integration.
The election outcome is a significant victory for President Sandu, who has pushed for closer ties with Europe since taking office in 2019. Her government has implemented several reforms aimed at improving governance, fighting corruption, and promoting economic development.
As the new parliament prepares to take office, attention will focus on how it will address pressing issues such as poverty, unemployment, and infrastructure development. The election result is a clear mandate for President Sandu's pro-European agenda, but its implementation will depend on the ability of her government to deliver tangible results.
In related news, the European Union has welcomed the election outcome, with EU Commissioner for Neighborhood and Enlargement Olivér Várhelyi expressing support for Moldova's European integration efforts. "We look forward to continuing our cooperation with the new parliament and government," he said in a statement.
The election result is set to have far-reaching consequences for Moldova's relations with its neighbors, particularly Russia. As the country moves closer to Europe, it remains to be seen how Moscow will respond to this shift in policy.
In conclusion, the parliamentary election in Moldova has delivered a resounding 'yes' to Europe and a clear 'no' to Russian influence. The outcome is a significant victory for President Sandu's pro-European agenda, but its implementation will depend on the ability of her government to deliver tangible results.
*Reporting by Dw.*
