Timișoara honours Sandu: Moldovan leader condemns war's value violations
Moldovan President Maia Sandu condemned the "violation of European and human values" triggered by Russia's war in Ukraine at the ceremony for the inaugural "Timișoara for European Values" award bestowed upon her today.
"Now, more than ever, we must unite to defend these values," she declared.
Timișoara Mayor Dominic Fritz lauded Sandu's unwavering stance against the invasion, highlighting her "courage in criticising Russia's aggression from the outset" and her role in steering Moldova away from Kremlin influence.
"Moldova's extraordinary solidarity demonstrates that, despite its size, its heart is immense," Fritz stated. "Refusing victimhood, Timișoara proudly grants the inaugural 'Timișoara for European Values' prize to President Sandu in recognition of her extraordinary efforts and journey."
Deeply honoured, Sandu acknowledged the award as a tribute to the Moldovan people's fight for "freedom, peace, and democracy."
"Just a few years ago, war on our doorstep seemed unthinkable," she remarked. "Yet, international law has been shattered, borders disregarded, and European and human values trampled. Populism and deceit, alluring to some disillusioned citizens, endanger vital values – open debate, trust in institutions, and trust in one another."
Sandu concluded by accepting the award as a recognition of "Moldova's unwavering defence of its right to live in freedom, peace, and democracy."
As the first recipient of this prestigious award, Sandu was chosen by a jury of esteemed Romanian and diaspora figures dedicated to upholding European values.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
