site.btaTaraclia Leaders Seek EU Insights from Ex-European Commissioner Meglena Kuneva

The Chair of Taraclia District in Moldova, Lazar Dermenji, together with mayors from local settlements, held discussions with former Bulgarian Deputy Prime Minister and former European Commissioner Meglena Kuneva and Bulgarian Ambassador to Moldova Maya Dobreva regarding Bulgaria’s experience in joining and integrating into the European Union. During the meeting, held at the Moldovan government building in the capital Chisinau, emphasis was placed on the practical benefits EU membership can bring to small communities and regions with limited resources, the Taraclia District Council said in a press release.

Kuneva shared successful examples of how Bulgaria has used European funds to improve its infrastructure, education, healthcare, and social services. According to her, the EU offers unique opportunities that can significantly enhance the quality of life at the local level.

Chair Dermenji and the mayors outlined the challenges facing Taraclia. These include preserving cultural heritage, expanding access to education and social services, and the need for initiatives supporting ethnic minorities. They stressed the importance of ensuring that the Bulgarian community is actively integrated into Moldova’s public life, while maintaining its cultural identity and increasing social engagement.

Taraclia District is located in the southern part of Moldova and comprises 26 settlements, including two towns, Taraclia and Tvardita. According to the 2014 population census, the district has around 40,000 residents, 66% of whom are ethnic Bulgarians. The district borders the Autonomous Territorial Unit of Gagauzia, Cahul District, and Ukraine’s Odesa region.