Southern Moldovan autonomy marks 25 years since proclamation of independence

Chisinau, 19 August /MOLDPRES/ - The 25th anniversary of the proclamation of the independence of the Autonomous Territorial Unit of Gagauzia (Gagauz Yeri) was marked today. On this occasion, more festive events were organized in Comrat, the autonomy's administrative centre.

The celebrations started today morning with a religious service officiated at the Sf. Ioan Botezatorul Cathedral (St. John the Baptist) from Comrat. Thereafter, a solemn assembly with participation of Prime Minister Valeriu Strelet was held at the Palace of Culture.

"Over a quarter of a century we have demonstrated that we have the right to exist and we must do our utmost for Gagauz-Yeri to be a region with high social standards, developed infrastructure and outstanding economic results," said Governor Irina Vlah at the meeting.

For his part, Valeriu Strelet said the event marked in Comrat was not an easy one in the history of Moldova, described as being quite controversial both in Chisinau and Comrat. "But let us not forget that we are a country that promotes democratic values. We are in the same boat and only together we can make Moldova a strong, prosperous and free state," said the prime minister.

Sports competitions, artistic programmes, ending with a parade of musical collectives from the region, will be organised throughout the day in the autonomy’s settlements.

In 1990, the Gagauz Halki movement (Gagauz people) proclaim ed the districts of Comrat, Ceadir-Lunga and Vulcanesti the so-called Republic of Gagauzia. In December 1994, the Moldovan parliament recognized the territorial autonomy of the Gagauz people, and in 1995 the borders of the new autonomous region were established following a regional referendum.

(Reporter L. Grubii, Editor L. Alcaza)