European Parliament Considers Maia Sandu Being "A New Hope" for Moldovans

The victory of Maia Sandu in the elections means a "new beginning" of relations between Moldova and the EU, the European Parliament said. The politician herself promises a "pragmatic dialogue" with both Brussels and Moscow. The European Parliament congratulated Maia Sandu on winning the second round of the presidential elections in Moldova. The result of the vote means "a victory for Moldovan democracy" and a "new beginning" of relations between the republic and the European Union, the EU parliament said in a statement released on Monday, November 16. The EU legislature called Sandu "a new hope for the people of Moldova." The ex-premier focused her presidential campaign on the interests and needs of her fellow citizens, the European Parliament stressed. Brussels highlighted Sandu's commitment to the rule of law and the fight against corruption, which "gave the people hope for a better future." The European Union looks forward to fruitful cooperation with Chisinau and the opportunity to welcome Sandu to the European Parliament as head of state, the statement said. The promise of a balance in Moldova's foreign policy The politician herself announced her intention to build "a real balance in foreign policy" and be guided by the national interests of Moldova. "We will build a pragmatic dialogue with all countries, including Ukraine, Romania, European countries, Russia and the United States. I will work for all citizens of our country," Sandu said at the briefing. Defeating the current president The second round of the presidential elections in Moldova took place on November 15. According to the CEC, the leader of the right-wing pro-European Action and Solidarity Party, Maia Sandu, was supported by 57.75 percent of the vote, while the incumbent head of state, Igor Dodon, received 42.25 percent of the vote. He preliminarily congratulated his opponent on the victory but did not admit his own defeat. Sandu's campaign was held under the slogan "Time for good people", that she called on to unite the Europe and build together Moldova's future without oligarchs and corruption.