"Great things are achieved as a team". Moldova’s champions receive MPs’ ovation
Moldovan athletes’ international achievements were celebrated with applause in Parliament during Thursday’s session, November 5. Champions Irina Rîngaci, Alexandrin Guțu, Mihai Bradu, and Vasile Diaconu, accompanied by their coaches, were invited and were congratulated on their performances at the World Championships in Astana.
Maxim Potîrniche, a Member of Parliament representing the Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS), introduced the four athletes to Parliament during the plenary session. The MP also paid tribute to their coaches—Mihail Cucu, Andrei Chiperi, and Roman Dermenji—for their contribution to the champions’ preparation.
"Distinguished Members of Parliament, dear citizens, today we have a group of young people visiting Parliament—or rather, a group of champions. We have athletes here, and when I say 'fighters,' I mean not only their sporting discipline but also the qualities they show in everyday life. They are true fighters", Maxim Potîrniche said, prompting a round of applause from MPs.
The MP also offered encouragement to the athletes who returned from the competitions without medals.
"Some athletes are not here with us today—those who returned home without medals—and I want to address them in particular. Do not lose heart! Keep your heads up! We see you, and we appreciate you! Great achievements come from teamwork. Without you, these athletes would not be here today. They are the champions today, but tomorrow it could be your turn. Be patient, stay strong, persevere, and keep working hard! This applause is for you!" Potîrniche added, drawing another round of applause.
During the same session, MPs also congratulated 17-year-old judoka Alexandra Chiron, who won bronze in the 52 kg category at the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar. Valentina Meșină, a member of the "Democracy at Home" parliamentary faction, highlighted her achievement, which secured the Republic of Moldova's first medal at this edition of the competition.
"Behind these results are years of hard work, discipline, perseverance, and sacrifice. Congratulations, Alexandra! Congratulations to her coach, Igor Neagu, her parents, and everyone who contributed to this success! She has shown us that a small country can produce great champions. We wish you many more victories and hope to see you one day standing on the highest step of the Olympic podium!" Valentina Meșină said.
It is worth recalling that on October 29, members of the "Enigma" team from Criuleni district also received applause in Parliament’s plenary chamber for their outstanding performance at the FIRST Global Challenge World Robotics Championship in South Korea.
The five students from the village of Boșcana won one gold and two silver medals at the competition, which brought together teams from more than 190 countries. Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu congratulated the young participants and their mentors on their achievements.
