Moldovan president grants citizenship to former Romanian head of state

Moldovan President Maia Sandu has restored citizenship to former Romanian president Traian Băsescu, aged 74, saying Băsescu had consistently supported Moldovan citizens regardless of the political leadership.

A presidential decree confirming the decision was published on the official website of the presidency, Caliber.Az reports.

Sandu praised Băsescu’s understanding of Moldova’s historical and cultural identity.

She added that the move was intended to correct what she described as an earlier injustice regarding his citizenship status.

“From today, you are not only our brother, but also our fellow citizen. We look forward to welcoming you home,” Sandu emphasised.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov