Moldovan speaker meets UNFPA official

Chisinau, March 11 / MOLDPRES /- Speaker Igor Grosu had a meeting with UN Executive Director (UNFPA) Natalia Kanem, which was also attended by UN Anti-Torture Committee Member Ana Racu, the parliament's communication and public relations department has reported.

The main topic of discussion was the crisis of Ukrainian refugees in the Republic of Moldova. The speaker thanked Natalia Kanem for support in efforts to help Ukrainian citizens.

Igor Grosu spoke about the actions taken by the authorities to manage the situation with refugees, but especially about the involvement of ordinary people, including from the diaspora, who show empathy for the citizens who come to Moldova from the neighboring country. The head of the Legislature added that, for the time being, immediate solutions must be identified for the remaining citizens on the territory of the Republic of Moldova, their number being over 100 thousand, but also the almost four thousand who have already applied for asylum.

"These efforts require a systemic approach and very good coordination between the country's authorities and development partners. We highly appreciate the assistance and expertise provided over the years by UNFPA and now count on your support, the solidarity of international partners to deal with this unprecedented crisis in the region, "he said.

At the same time, the head of the Legislature noted that the Moldovan authorities must act promptly in managing the refugee crisis and, at the same time, continue to ensure the proper functioning of state institutions, especially with regard to the social protection of the country's citizens.

Natalia Kanem said she had visited two refugee sorting and emergency placement centers in Ukraine and was impressed by the level of co-operation between government representatives, non-governmental organizations and international organizations.

During the discussions, the importance of supporting, in particular, vulnerable groups of refugees - women, girls, people with disabilities, the elderly, etc., who need logistical, medical, psychosocial assistance, was emphasized. The interlocutors also spoke about the need for good communication regarding the reception and distribution of humanitarian assistance, so that everyone can see that this process is transparent and honest.

In conclusion, officials supported the UN Secretary-General's call: "Violence must be stopped. We need peace. Human lives, their dignity and human rights must be protected. "

Photo: Parliament