The political party Democracy at Home welcomed the European Union’s decision to open the first negotiation cluster with the Republic of Moldova, TRIBUNA reports.

“Europe is extending a hand to us in Luxembourg by opening Cluster 1, ‘Fundamental Values.’ Europe means the rule of law, justice, good roads, modern hospitals, and order. Unfortunately, in Chișinău, the current government has turned ‘European integration’ into a party brand and an electoral scare tactic.

The opening of negotiations is not a grade of 10 for the government; it is a vote of confidence granted to the Moldovan people. While you cut ribbons and take selfies in Brussels, people in Răzeni, Florești, and Cahul are wondering how they will make a living tomorrow.

The justice reform you speak about in the European chapters is stalled. You promised a clean-up, yet we continue to see the same networks and schemes being rearranged under the umbrella of European integration. Public procurement, which is mentioned in this cluster, is surrounded by many question marks, while European funds often end up in the pockets of favored companies in Chișinău instead of reaching village mayoralties, where the real battle for Moldova’s survival is being fought,” the party’s statement says.

Democracy at Home states that it unequivocally supports the European path and integration into the Romanian and European value space, as this is our only chance to escape poverty and threats from the East.

“However, we will be there—in the streets and among the people—to hold you accountable every time you attempt to steal or lie under the flag of the European Union.

We want Europe at home, but a real Europe—with fair justice, developed villages, and politicians held accountable—not a cardboard Europe that serves only as material for election leaflets,” the party added.