Hetq speaks with Dorin Chirtoacă, mayor of the Moldovan capital, Chișinău (Kishinev)

How would you compare the European Union and the Customs Union? What are the fundamental differences between the two?

The European Union is an international organization founded on democratic principles. It offers all possible freedoms and to date has shown that it is able to be the most successful international initiative in the world.

If we look at the other option, the Customs Union, we see that it is attempting to come to the fore on the foundation of the former Soviet Union. The USSR was created through aggression and violence; on the foundation of “occupied” territories. And now, the Customs Union is essentially trying to resurrect the former Soviet Union.

From this perspective, it is impossible to compare the two, since the EU brings nations together. Furthermore, there are difficulties regarding a few countries. Here, I am particularly referring to Asia, which constituted a part of the USSR. In addition, these countries have limited choice options. On the one hand is China, on the other Russia. This further complicates the picture.

In order to form a union, you must first create a democratic system and government in your country. Before this happens, it is difficult to establish a union, because what is being created is via pressure and power, Sooner or later, it will collapse.  We are the victims of a Soviet Union which collapsed and other empires. The pressures continue from Russia. We see what pressures are being exacted against the Ukraine. We see the pressures on Armenia and Georgia. We also see the pressures directed against Moldova. In the past few months we have learnt that no foodstuffs, wine or vegetables will be allowed to be transported to Russia from Moldova just because we want to join the EU.

So, what’s the resolution to this situation?

There is a problem with certain territories that have been split off and occupied by the Russian army. We understand that Russia has its interests. That’s its right. It’s a huge country. But, in the 21st century, each nation has the right to choose its own path. Even if Russia desires to see another future for Moldova, we must have the right to decide for ourselves.

We want to join the EU, because we are a part of Europe. Even certain Slavonic countries are a part of the EU; for example the Czech Republic and Bulgaria. Thus, if Russia wants to form another union, in competition with the EU, such an initiative must be done democratically and based on the free will of that country. Otherwise, it will be difficult to join those countries and soon or later the union will fall apart.  That which is created through violence and pressure can’t survive for long.

What do you think about Armenia entering the Customs Union?

That decision was made in 24 hours. We all expected that Armenia would sign the Association Agreement in Vilnius, along with Moldova and Ukraine. Armenia’s overnight decision to go the other route amazed us all.

Is Moldova preparing to sign the Association Agreement?

Moldova will shortly approve the Agreement and sign it next year. We remain decisive on this; to become a part of the European family. On the other hand, it is difficult for us. We are a small nation with meager resources and have one million migrant workers abroad.

But because of this, Moldova must move towards the EU, in order to develop and have the possibility to overcome these social and economic problems.

 

P.S. We met Kishniev mayor during the High-level Covenant of Mayors Forum in Istanbul. The forum was orgnaized by Energy Cities (the European Association of local authorities in energy transition) on November 14-15.