Latvian speaker: You are expected in European family

You are expected in the European family. I hope the elections in the Republic of Moldova will be conducted democratically and the pro-European forces will prevail. Latvian Speaker Daiga Mieriņa made the statement today at a joint press conference held with Speaker Igor Grosu in Chisinau.

The Latvian official appreciated the reforms carried out by the Republic of Moldova in joining the European Union. Daiga Mieriņa also expressed support for the continued efforts on the path towards the EU.


“I am very pleased to visit the Republic of Moldova. A country that is an ally and a good friend of Latvia. We had very good discussions. A comprehensive program follows, including a visit to Ungheni. I have followed with great interest the developments in Moldova on the European path. We are your faithful supporters. Many things have been done, but there are still goals to be achieved. For Latvia, the negotiations lasted six years – six years of hard work, during which we managed to overcome challenges, but it was worth it. We continue to help and support you diplomatically, through experts, and financially,” the Latvian speaker said.


Mieriņa emphasized that the Republic of Moldova is awaited in the great European family.


“Democracy is costly and requires permanent support, which is why it is important to explain the benefits of European integration. After European integration in Latvia, the average salary increased from 300 euros to 1,700 euros. It is clear what the benefits and opportunities of EU membership are. I hope that the Republic of Moldova will join the EU faster and more easily than we did. You are expected in the European family. I hope the upcoming elections in the Republic of Moldova will be conducted democratically and pro-European forces will prevail,” Mieriņa said.


Grosu said that the visit shows that Latvia stands with the Republic of Moldova and supports us in our European path.


“We firmly believe that this visit will further strengthen the parliamentary dialogue. The Republic of Moldova is a European country by history, culture and values. I express my gratitude that our country is among the priority  countries benefiting from aid for development and taking over Latvia's good practices. Thank you for your continuous support within European institutions. Moldova wants to become part of the EU because that is where our place is, alongside friends and partners,” said Igor Grosu.


The speaker added that Latvia is one of the staunch supporters of this path, a country that is not just an ally but also an example for the Republic of Moldova.


“Ten years ago, Latvia made a historical step by joining the EU. In these ten years, you have managed to build a strong economy, modernize infrastructure, and improve the living standards of the people, which is what we also desire for the Republic of Moldova. Over the last 10 years, our relations have developed rapidly, with over 60 Latvian-owned companies operating in Moldova. We want to attract more investments. Our country is best known for its wine industry and IT. We can also develop the tourism sector. We also welcome the decision of Air Baltic to resume the Chisinau – Riga flight of 4 May 2024. On the diaspora dimension, we have made progress regarding the Social Agreement and the recognition of driving licenses. Thank you for your strong support and long-term partnership,” Grosu said.


Mieriņa is paying a visit to the Republic of Moldova on 14-15 April. The Latvian official has scheduled discussions with deputy speaker Doina Gherman and MP Alina Dandara, head of the Parliamentary Friendship Group with Latvia.

The visit agenda also includes a meeting with President Maia Sandu, Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Cristina Gherasimov, Deputy Prime Minister for Reintegration Oleg Serebrian and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Deputy Prime Minister Mihail Popșoi.

On 15 April, the officisl will visit Ungheni, to meet with representatives of local public authorities and the socio-economic sector in the region. This is the first visit of Mieriņa to the Republic of Moldova.