Nicușor Dan on Romania-Moldova reunification: sovereignty and EU path first
Nicușor Dan, the President of Romania, expressed strategic confidence in the future of the bilateral relationship with the Republic of Moldova, noting that any potential reunification depends exclusively on the will of Moldovan citizens.
The Romanian head of state made these remarks on January 22, following a European Council meeting in Brussels. His comments addressed recent statements by Moldovan President Maia Sandu regarding the scenario of merging the two nations.
Respecting sovereign will
President Dan clarified that there is currently no majority support in Moldova for reunification. He emphasized that this reality must be respected as a core expression of the neighboring state's sovereignty.
"At this moment, the Republic of Moldova is a sovereign state, and sovereignty is expressed through the majority opinion of its citizens," Dan stated. He noted that the current majority favors European Union integration as the primary national goal.
A strategic partnership
The Romanian President reaffirmed that Bucharest unreservedly supports Chisinau’s strategic objective of joining the EU. He described Romania as a "supportive elder brother" bound by shared culture and history.
When asked if reunification could serve as a "Plan B" should EU integration face delays, Dan reiterated Romania's principled stance: strict adherence to the democratic will of the Moldovan people.
The path ahead
"I am optimistic that this [EU integration] will happen," the President added. He noted that if a majority were to hold a different opinion in the medium or long term, Romania would act accordingly.
These statements align with recent comments from President Maia Sandu. In a recent interview, Sandu admitted she would personally vote for reunification in a referendum but must prioritize political realities.
Current public sentiment
According to the latest Public Opinion Barometer, 33.4% of Moldovan citizens would currently vote for reunification with Romania. Approximately 17% of the population remains undecided on the matter.
For now, the administration in Chisinau views EU accession as a more realistic objective to protect its democracy and sovereignty.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
