The main purpose of the visit is to show support for Moldova, a country that has been severely affected by the war in Ukraine. The parliamentary presidents also wish to reinforce their support for democratic processes in the country.

 

“The war in Ukraine has presented Moldova with severe challenges. More than 100,000 Ukrainian refugees have crossed the border into the country and the economy is suffering. A joint Nordic-Baltic visit is a way of showing our clear backing,” said President of the Storting Masud Gharahkhani.

 

The Nordic and Baltic presidents of parliament are due to meet Igor Grosu, Moldova’s President of Parliament, and Natalia Gavrilita, the Prime Minister of Moldova, on Tuesday 31^st May. They will also be having a series of meetings in the Moldovan Parliament.

 

Among the items on the agenda will be Moldova’s reception of refugees, the consequences of the war between Ukraine and Russia, and interparliamentary collaboration.

 

“This visit by all the Nordic and Baltic parliaments is a way of displaying our unequivocal support for the forces of democracy in Moldova, and that the country is an independent, autonomous state. It’s crucial that they do not cease in their efforts for political stability and democracy, the rule of law and the fight against corruption,” Mr Gharahkhani said. 

 

“It is very important for the presidents of the Nordic and Baltic parliaments to support democracies in our own neighbourhood. Moldova has gone through turbulent political times, but the summer 2021 parliamentary election has made reforms in the rule of law and efforts to combat corruption easier to achieve politically. These are key pillars for a healthy democracy,” added the President of the Storting.

 

During his visit, the President of the Storting will meet Ukrainian refugees, representatives of the Norwegian Refugee Council and a number of UN organizations to learn more about the current situation in Moldova.