Maia Sandu discusses unity and Church role in Moldova
The importance of unity and mutual understanding in society was discussed by President Maia Sandu during separate meetings with Metropolitan Petru of Bessarabia and Metropolitan Vladimir of Moldova, held at the Presidential Palace.
These meetings took place during the Holy Easter celebrations and were intended to convey a message of solidarity and unity among people.
The President emphasized the importance of maintaining peace, understanding, and solidarity in our society. She also highlighted the vital role of the Church in strengthening communities, promoting peace, and maintaining a united society in the face of challenges.
It is worth noting that on Thursday, during a televised interview, President Sandu mentioned that she would soon discuss the involvement of priests in politics with Metropolitan Vladimir. This would include addressing pilgrimages organized by the clergy to Russia, Serbia, and Jerusalem, some of which were funded by the “Evrazia” organization, an entity internationally sanctioned for its role in destabilizing the Republic of Moldova.
The President stressed that this situation is serious because it involves promoting the interests of another state within Moldova. She stated that "priests who continue to show disrespect toward this country and its laws must be held accountable."
"Priests are also citizens of the Republic of Moldova, and they must be good patriots of this country, serving here. The people who follow them are individuals who want to live in peace in the Republic of Moldova, and they should respect both the laws and the sovereignty of this state," President Sandu said, also noting that, regardless of political preferences, priests should not engage in politics.
Several priests and citizens from the Republic of Moldova participated in pilgrimages to Russia, Serbia, and Jerusalem, some of which were funded by the “Evrazia” organization, which has been internationally sanctioned for its role in destabilizing Moldova. This information was confirmed by Metropolitan Vladimir and the General Police Inspectorate (GPI).
Metropolitan Vladimir acknowledged that over 1,100 clergy and laypeople had received financial support from “Evrazia” to visit sacred sites in Russia but denied any direct links to Ilan Șor. However, the police are investigating these trips, suspecting that they may serve hidden purposes and be part of a scheme to influence the upcoming parliamentary elections, coordinated from Moscow with the involvement of Șor.
Among the actions under investigation is a recent trip by 19 protopopes to Jerusalem, where they met with Russian politician Alexandr Ralnikov, known for supporting pro-Russian candidates in Moldova. The Metropolitan denied the involvement of the Diocese in the trip to Serbia but confirmed the visit to Jerusalem, stating that he did not know who financed it.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
