Chair of the opposition Save Romania Union (USR) Elena Lasconi hailed the fact that the Republic of Moldova has „chosen the path” towards the European Union, „despite Russian propaganda”, stating that what is happening in Chisinau „is a lesson” for Romanian politicians as well.

„In a complicated period with an increasingly fierce Russian propaganda, where the people’s votes can be bought, and with disinformation taking forms we didn’t even think about a while ago, it is our responsibility, of those who have a strong voice, of those who can make ourselves heard from the public rostrum, to rebuild the weakened bridges between the state and the citizen. Let us speak up more, explain better and offer serious projects, not just words and fantasies,” Lasconi said, as cited in an USR release.

She pointed out that it is „more important than ever” for Romania to have „responsible politicians who understand the times we live in”, but also the concerns of the people they represent.

„I am glad that, despite the Russian propaganda, the Moldovan citizens from the country and the diaspora have understood where prosperity comes from: the West, not from Putin’s Russia. It is the clear path both the Republic of Moldova and Romania must follow,” said Lasconi.

According to her, EU membership does not equate to the loss of sovereignty, rights or resources. Also, the Moldovan referendum has proven that „every vote can make a difference”, the USR leader said.

„No matter how much Russia tries to convince Romanian and Moldovan citizens that the European Union means the loss of identity, that it chips away our rights and resources, it will not succeed. People are intelligent and have understood perfectly well that the European Union is our chance for prosperity, democracy and freedom. They have figured out that the EU doesn’t take anything from us, but gives to us. It’s the weak and corrupt politicians who cut off our money and rights – politicians who sit on their knees in Brussels and at home conceal their incompetence with words that sound sweet to Russia!,” added Lasconi.

According to the preliminary results centralized by the Central Electoral Commission in Chisinau after counting the votes from 99.32% of the total of 2,219 polling stations, 50.37% answered „YES” in the referendum to join the EU, while 49.63% opposed this initiative.

Also, according to the preliminary results presented by the Central Electoral Commission after the count of the votes from 98.15% of the total number of polling stations, incumbent President of the Republic of Moldova, Maia Sandu, who is seeking re-election backed by the ruling Action and Solidarity Party, garnered 41.83% of the votes (633,403), while the candidate of the Socialist Party of the Republic of Moldova, Alexandr Stoianoglo, got 26.40% of the votes (399,740).

AGERPRES