Moldova young people meet with the EU ambassador: “The European future starts with us”
The new generation is playing an active role in shaping a European future. Nearly a hundred young people, including students and entrepreneurs, gathered to meet with the European Union Ambassador to Chisinau, Iwona Piorko. They were given the opportunity to learn directly about the European support programs available to them.
Oana-Marina Păun shared her experience regarding how the European Union contributes to the development of small and medium-sized businesses. She runs a workshop in Chișinău where plastic is transformed into jewelry and furniture.
"With a small initiative but great confidence, we managed to receive support from ODA, which helped us set up our workspace with the necessary equipment for the recycling process. All of this was made possible with the help of the European Union, which supported our idea and has given us the opportunity to continue it for three years now," said Oana-Marina Păun.
Participants had the opportunity to ask questions and share their vision for the Republic of Moldova's European path.
"We are trying to promote European opportunities among young people; we want them to be able to participate in various activities," said volunteer Valeria Botnaru.
"When we talk about the European Union, I believe that the EU supports young people and their development through donations, various allowances, and cultural exchange programs. Regarding the perception of young people, I think they can get involved in different ways in the European path of the Republic of Moldova," stated Augustina Alibecova, a student at “Alexei Mateevici” College in Chișinău.
"I support the ideas of the EU. For me, the most important value is freedom—the freedom to speak, to think, and to do something meaningful."
The European Union Ambassador to Chișinău emphasized the importance of involving young people in bringing the country closer to the European Union.
"What you do really matters for your country and for the European Union. Real change starts with you. Thank you for your everyday efforts, for your European spirit, and for your solidarity. The country cannot change without you," emphasized Iwona Piorko, the EU Ambassador to Chișinău.
The event "Moldovan youth for Europe: Future begins with us" was organized as part of the project "Strategic Communication and Support for Mass Media in the Republic of Moldova." This event is a satellite activity of the European Union Enlargement Forum, which will take place in Brussels on November 18.
Author: Camelia Babeica
