Moldovan president attends National Forum of Ethnic Minorities

President Maia Sandu today attended the National Forum of Ethnic Minorities, where she discussed strengthening trust in society, preserving cultural identity and the European future of Moldova.

The head of state emphasized that, during a period marked by the war in the region, security risks and attempts to divide society, it was essential to strengthen cohesion and the sense of belonging to Moldova: “There is no contradiction between respecting everyone’s identity and having a sense of belonging to the country. We must respect one another, understand one another, listen to each other when we speak and not choose the language of hate. We build peace ourselves and peace can be built only on trust between people, trust in the state, joint efforts and the ability to move forward.”

President Maia Sandu spoke about the benefits of joining the European Union for all citizens, regardless of the community they belong to. The head of state highlighted that the European integration means greater security, economic opportunities, investments in infrastructure and additional resources to protect and promote the cultural and linguistic identity of ethnic communities.

“When a drone fell in Etulia, a predominantly Gagauz community, the danger did not ask what language people spoke. Nor did it when another drone exploded between Ceadar-Lunga and Valea Perjei or in Crocmaz. We all have the same concerns and want the same thing: to know that our children are safe and to live in peace,” the president said. She emphasized that security challenges affect us all and that Moldova would be stronger and better protected as part of the European Union.

The head of state reiterated that the authorities had a responsibility to create the conditions for every community to preserve its native language, traditions and culture. “I want us to do more together, so that each child knows his/her native language and so that we have as many events as possible promoting the culture of our communities. Through music and dance, people get to know one another better, reducing the chances of those who want to divide us,” Maia Sandu said.

During the discussion about the country’s future, Maia Sandu emphasized the need to invest in education, strengthen trust between people and enhance the society’s ability to adapt to the rapid changes taking place in the world.

The 2026 National Forum of Ethnic Minorities brought together approximately 210 participants, including representatives of ethnocultural organizations, public authorities, civil society and international partners. The event was organized by the Center for Civic Initiatives for National Minorities, in partnership with the Konrad Adenauer Foundation and the Soros Foundation Moldova.