Lighting appeal questioned amid rising household costs
Moldova Mare leader Victoria Furtună has criticised a fundraising effort by PAS to collect €25,000 to illuminate the Eiffel Tower in the colours of the Moldovan flag. The initiative is intended to mark the 35th anniversary of the country’s independence.
The lighting appeal was made by Moldova’s Ambassador to France Lorina Bălteanu, who said the money was urgently needed for the illumination. She added that she had personally contributed €3,000 of her own funds.
In a video address published on her Telegram channel, Furtună questioned why citizens were being asked to contribute while facing rising household costs.
“Perhaps the authorities will finally stop demanding citizens’ last money regardless of whether they are at home in Moldova or have gone abroad to work. At a time when people are being urged to save electricity, gas and fuel, and to accept constantly rising prices, we learn from the appeal by the Republic of Moldova’s ambassador to France that citizens must raise €25,000 to illuminate the Eiffel Tower in the colours of our country’s flag.”
Embassy purchase adds to criticism
Furtună also pointed to the recent purchase of a new building for the Moldovan Embassy in Paris, arguing that the lighting appeal formed part of wider spending on image-building projects abroad. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integration, the diplomatic mission’s headquarters on Rue Henri Rochefort cost taxpayers approximately €7 million.
The politician said diplomacy and national symbols remained important, but argued that the authorities should adopt different priorities during an economic crisis.
“Yes, diplomacy and national symbols matter. But how can you explain to a citizen counting every penny to pay bills that they are being asked to economise while millions are found for image-building projects? People are not demanding luxury. They are demanding respect and properly set priorities. Perhaps before placing flags on towers, we should make sure that people at home are not drowning in everyday worries and problems.”
Call to prioritise vulnerable families
The Moldova Mare leader urged the authorities to consider how many vulnerable households could instead be supported with the €25,000 sought through the lighting appeal. She said the money could be directed towards essential costs such as utility bills, medicines and food.
“Before asking for money for image-building events and celebrations abroad, I believe we should ask ourselves: how many socially vulnerable families could be helped with €25,000? How many bills, medicines or hot meals could be paid for?”
Concluding her address, Furtună said the government should first concentrate on domestic energy security and responsibility.
“Moldova first needs light in people’s homes, energy security and responsibility. Only after that should there be symbolic lights in Paris.”
