Moldova and Romania Outraged by German Ambassador’s Remarks on Language and Religion.

German Ambassador Faces Backlash in Moldova

According to 5 канал — Політика: Hubert Knirsch, Germany’s ambassador to Moldova, has sparked outrage in both Moldova and Romania following controversial comments about the two countries’ language and religion. Knirsch claimed that the people of these nations do not share a common language or faith. This has caused concern, especially since Romanian is enshrined as the official language in Moldova’s constitution, and Orthodox Christianity is the dominant religion in both countries.

Reactions to Knirsch’s Statements

The remarks drew sharp criticism from former Romanian President Traian Băsescu and Dragoș Galbur, leader of the National Moldovan Party. Galbur stated that

“the country faces two opponents of its Romanian identity—Russia and, in his view, German policy in Chișinău.”

Knirsch later suggested that his words during the interview may have been mistranslated. Germany’s Foreign Ministry clarified that any decision regarding the unification of Moldova and Romania rests solely with those two countries. Knirsch previously served at the German embassy in Moscow and led the German diplomatic mission in Georgia. However, in 2020, Georgian civil society organizations accused him of political bias.

This incident highlights the sensitivity surrounding national identity in Moldova and Romania, particularly given their deep historical and cultural ties. Whether misinterpreted or not, Knirsch’s comments raise questions about diplomatic relations and could affect how Germany is perceived as a partner in the region. Amid ongoing geopolitical challenges, it remains crucial for state representatives to choose their words carefully to avoid further tensions between countries.