Thank you, Madam President, for your warm welcome to Moldova. I am here in Chișinău to express strong support to Moldova’s path to the European Union. You are on the right track. Also, you have made remarkable efforts to help the Ukrainian refugees. I want to express full support for President Sandu.
Estonians understand the challenge of being a small European country in today’s dangerous and turbulent world. Moldova has shown that it has a big heart, and is standing tall. Despite facing the consequences of atrocities committed in your neighbouring country.
Three weeks ago, when President Putin began his war against Ukraine, the lives of all of us here in Europe changed radically. It is causing terror and destruction that no decent human being could imagine happening in 21st century Europe. No one takes peace for granted anymore.
Free world stands united with Ukraine and helps any way possible. Estonia, along with other European nations and partners, will also continue to put pressure on the Russian government. We will make sure the price of aggression is unbearably high for President Putin. We will continue until he is defeated.
I want to commend Moldova for opening your hearts and homes for Ukrainians who have fled from war and sought a refuge here. You have done an outstanding job in welcoming and protecting them. I am going to visit the refugee centre later today.
Estonia will do all that we can to assist you as you care for those who have already suffered from the horrors of the war. Estonia has decided to provide 100 000 euros of direct financial aid to Moldova to alleviate the effects of the humanitarian crisis caused by the war. Estonia will also donate Moldova buses to help with the transportation of refugees. To cope with the coronavirus pandemic we will provide Jansen Covid-19 vaccine.
I am here to show our strong support to your efforts to move closer to European Union. Estonia welcomes your application to join the EU. Last week the EU leaders at the Versailles meeting took the first formal step towards the Moldova’s accession to EU. Moldova is part of European family. No one can doubt that and no one can stop you fulfilling your European dream.
I am proud to see your determination to continue your way to the European Union. Estonian experience is that it is a difficult path, with many reforms and changes required. It is essential that Moldova continues its reform efforts and ensuring good governance. Moldova can count on our support and assistance to successfully implement necessary reforms.
Investment in your future is an important contribution to the peace, security and stability of the Europe. It is also an investment in the close relations between our countries. Our friendship and solidarity are unbreakable. As I said before, you can count on us.
Thank you.
