On Presidential Elections in Moldova
As delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III
to the Permanent Council, Vienna
November 19, 2020
Thank you, Mr. Chairperson.
The United States congratulates Moldova on their recent election. We also congratulate Maia Sandu on being elected the president of Moldova.
Since 1991, the United States has been a dedicated partner to Moldova. We have and continue to support the Moldovan people as they build their democracy and a more prosperous future for their country, despite the continued presence of Russian forces in Transnistria. Moldova’s leaders should now work together to face the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, develop Moldova’s economy, strengthen its democratic institutions and rule of law, combat corruption, and defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The United States notes the preliminary reports of ODIHR’s Limited Election Observation Mission on the first and second rounds of Moldova’s presidential election. We look forward to ODIHR’s final report, expected in the coming weeks.
We encourage Moldova to work closely with the OSCE to implement recommendations from ODIHR and the Council of Europe’s Venice Commission.
One again, Mr. Chairperson, the United States will continue to support a democratic Moldova, firmly anchored in Europe, secure within its internationally recognized borders, which upholds the principles of effective and accountable governance.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.
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