“President Sandu Proposes EU Membership Referendum in Moldova” – Breaking World News
Moldova’s President Sandu Calls for EU Membership Referendum in 2024
President Sandu of Moldova has called for a referendum to be held in the autumn of 2024 to determine the country’s EU membership. In a video message, Sandu emphasized that what Moldovans want will be decisive in the decision.
“If voters support the EU route, we will continue reforms for peace and a better future. We must clearly show which path we have chosen,” said Sandu, who also announced his candidacy for a second term presidency. He stressed that the parliament should prioritize putting the referendum issue on the agenda.
Moldovan administration has previously announced that the process of joining the EU membership would take place in two stages due to the Transnistria issue. Leaders of EU member states decided to start membership negotiations with Moldova and Ukraine at the December 14 summit.
The Transnistria question dates back to Moldova’s declaration of independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Transnistria, located on the east bank of the Dniester River, also unilaterally declared its independence, leading to armed conflicts with Moldova. Talks for a solution between Moldova and Transnistria have been ongoing since 1993 within the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe.
Transnistria, which declared its independence unilaterally within Moldova and is not recognized by any United Nations member state, has its own political structure, parliament, army, police, and postal system.
Sandu’s call for a referendum on EU membership comes as Moldova continues to navigate the complexities of its relationship with Transnistria. The outcome of the referendum will hold significant implications for Moldova’s future and its place in the European community.
