The recent statements about a possible union between Romania and the Republic of Moldova made by Romanian president Traian Basescu (in picture) have stirred comments both in Romania and in neighboring Moldova. Moldovan politicians argued that Basescu's statements have caused a rift in the Moldovan society and caused trouble. Romania was also criticized for not having supported the republic of Moldova enough financially.

Romanian president was prompt to reply: he said he's fed up by the Moldovan politicians' statements, which are incorrect. “Brothers, let's send you the bill!”, said Basescu, referring to the financial assistance Romania has given to the Republic of Moldova. He reminded that Romania has been offering 5,500 scholarships to Moldovan students in the last six years, which “doesn't come cheap”.

He also pointed to the times Romania supplied electricity to the Republic of Moldovan when needed, as well as of the 2011 flooding, when Romania helped its neighbor build houses worth some EUR 8 million. “It is a certain kind of incorrectness on behalf of Moldovan politicians. Well, let's not just talk, brothers, let us give you the bill, as Romania too is a country which was financially challenged, which had expenses,” Basescu added.

Romania should this year declare that Moldova is Romanian territory, President Traian Basescu has said. The president's remarks follow comments he made in December that the country’s third national project should be unification of the two countries after EU and NATO accession.

Part of a historical region known as Basarabia, much of Moldova was united with Romania after World War I, only to be annexed by the Soviets following World War II as part of the Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact.

editor@romania-insider.com