Must watch: EU Ambassador to Moldova tackles burning questions about the European future of Moldova

The EU Ambassador to Moldova, Jānis Mažeiks, has released a reaction video responding to viral footage from Russian vlogger Ilya Varlamov’s visit to Gagauzia, harnessing the power of YouTube content trends. In his video, the Ambassador addresses questions and concerns raised by Gagauzians about Moldova’s EU path.

Varlamov’s original video documented his journey across the Gagauzian region, in which he explored why many Gagauzians remain hesitant about joining the EU despite visible and significant EU support and opportunities for the younger generation. While many locals expressed doubts about EU integration, one of the interviewees suggested it could be because of their lack of awareness about how people live in the EU: ”I think they are not aware of how people live there [in the EU]. I looked at a survey on how people voted for Europe, and I was surprised. You can see for yourself how much Europe has done for Gagauzia and not just for Gagauzia, but for all of Moldova. The thing is, I am already in my later years, so Europe is not something I will experience, but for my children and grandchildren, I want them to have a better future. I want my sons to live better than I did because, as I see it, from generation to generation, people should live better.”

In his video, Jānis Mažeiks directly addresses common misconceptions about the EU raised by ordinary Gagauzians. His response clarifies the EU’s stance on key issues, including fundamental values and freedoms, energy supply and costs, Moldova’s trade with the EU, relations with Russia, the protection of ethnic minorities, media literacy, and the Romanian language. He reinforces the EU’s commitment to supporting Moldova and all its regions in every possible way.

The Ambassador concludes his video message with an optimistic outlook for Moldova’s future perspective: “I hope that over time, the people of Gagauzia will also better understand who their true friends are and what the future holds for Gagauzia and for the Republic of Moldova. The people of Moldova have already confirmed this important choice in a referendum by voting for the Republic of Moldova to become a member of the European Union. I believe that in the future, we have even more work ahead to make this choice a reality so that people can benefit not only from the advantages that the European Union provides to other countries but also from those available to EU citizens. And, of course, at the same time, ensuring all the rights that all people in the European Union enjoy.”

Watch the video:

Learn more about EU support to Moldova