Moldovan head of state congratulates all citizens on Nansen Refugee Award, given by Office of UN High Commissioner for Refugees

Chisinau, 15 October /MOLDPRES/ - President Maia Sandu today conveyed a congratulatory message to all Moldova’s citizens for the international recognition received through the Nansen Refugee Award, provided by the Office of the United Nations Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the presidential press service has reported.    

„We are proud that the people of Moldova were recognized for the solidarity and compassion showed at the moment when we received hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians, who were fleeing the war. This award is a proof of our people’s generosity and strength,’’ the Moldovan president stressed.   

The award, dedicated to all Moldovans, was taken by soprano, UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador Valentina Nafornita, along with Zaharia and Tatiana Arama, spouses from the Palanca village, Stefan Voda district, who hosted refugees free of charge at their agricultural boarding house , Casa Veche (Old Home), placed just several kilometers far from border. Just as these spouses, many other Moldovans opened their homes and hearts and provided unconditional support to Ukrainians who were fleeing the horrors of the war.      

The Nansen Refugee Award, created in 1954 in honour of a Norwegian diplomat, Fridtjof Nansen, recognizes the exceptional efforts of the people, groups or organizations in the protection and backing of refugees, internally displaced people or stateless people. The distinction honours outstanding acts of courage, solidarity and humanitarian dedication, being a global expression of the gratitude for those who put the humanity on first place while facing great challenges.