Roberta METSOLA, EP President opens the plenary session in Brussels (18-19 May 2022). Opening remarks. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Brussels

plenary session

EU - Moldova (T)

METSOLA, Roberta (EPP, MT, EP President)

SANDU, Maia (MD)

president's agenda

Resumption of session: opening remarks by Roberta METSOLA, EP President

SOUNDBITE (English), Roberta METSOLA, EP President, Dear colleagues, we have the president of Moldova, Maia Sandu, with us today. President, let me start by thanking you as you've just seen, for accepting our invitation to address the European Parliament. We are really honoured to welcome you here today. I also want to thank you for your courage.

SOUNDBITE (English), Roberta METSOLA, EP President, In the midst of Russia's unjust and illegal invasion in Ukraine, that has had such a profound impact on Moldova. Thank you for the efforts of your country and your personal commitment in sustaining a vision of a European future for your country. Against all odds, we know how deeply the covid pandemic, the weaponization of energy supplies and the Kremlin's full scale war against Ukraine have affected your country.

SOUNDBITE (English), Roberta METSOLA, EP President, Moldova's commitment to the European project is welcome. We are united in our commitment towards sustaining peace in Europe. and to our shared values of democracy and the rule of law. And this is why we want to forge a way forward where Moldova does not feel alone. I also want to praise your efforts and those of the Moldovan people in welcoming 450 thoudand Ukrainians that transited through Moldova and for opening your homes and your hearts to the 90000 refugees who  sought shelter in your country.

SOUNDBITE (English), Roberta METSOLA, EP President, We have to and we are ready to show the same degree of solidarity with your country as we have already. We must continue to support you politically, financially and with any in kind assistance needed to fight the consequences of Russia's war in Ukraine.

SOUNDBITE (English), Roberta METSOLA, EP President, So, President, we are also ready to support you as you start the process of applying for candidate status for EU membership. We know that Moldova is looking to us with a sense of purpose. Every country must follow its own path, its own timeline. But we must not be afraid to use the power of Europe to improve people's lives, to change generations.

SOUNDBITE (English), Roberta METSOLA, EP President, And this is why the European Union needs to send a clear and firm political signal that we recognise the European aspirations of Moldova and your effort in implementing key reforms that bring your country closer to us. Moldova belongs in the European family. Dear President, dear Maia, the floor is yours.