A potential vote against pro-European parties in the parliamentary elections on September 28 could have direct consequences for the citizens of the Republic of Moldova, including the loss of the visa-free regime in the European Union. This is the opinion of the president of the Center for Conflict Prevention and Early Warning, Iulian Chifu, university professor, doctor habilitated at UNAP. In his view, a change in political direction would signal a profound change in the aspirations and values of society, reports IPN.
Analyst Iulian Chifu draws attention to the fact that if voters support anti-European parties, this will reflect a change in societal values and will have direct consequences on the relationship between the Republic of Moldova and the European Union. “The sanction applies to all citizens of the Republic of Moldova, thus resulting in a ban on visa-free travel to the EU and EU member states,” Chifu emphasized in the editorial published on caleaeuropeana.ro.”
In his opinion, the consequences of such a vote could be even more severe than in the case of Georgia, considering the geographical positioning of the Republic of Moldova. Iulian Chifu believes that choosing a pro-Russian direction equates to a return to the “repressive Gulag” and the loss of freedoms gained in recent years.
The President of the Conflict Prevention and Early Warning Center emphasizes that principles and values are not only tested when you benefit from the free market and free movement within the EU, but precisely when times are tough and you are asked to validate these choices through actions, through vote.
Iulian Chifu draws attention to the constant support received from Romania and the European Union, and questions Russia’s ability to economically sustain the Republic of Moldova. “A financially collapsed Russia will not pay for the Republic of Moldova because it has no means,” he says, reminding of the critical situation in the Transnistrian region.
In the end, Iulian Chifu asserts that the autumn election will be a test of sovereignty. Moldova has to choose between European values and the influence of the “Russian World”, and the vote on September 28 will show in which direction it wishes to go.