"The manifestation (gay parade - Gay.ru) which was planned for May 2nd did not take place. Despite countless assurances to EU institutions, in practice Moldavian authorities did not fulfill their promises. This event is sure to be discussed at the highest levels." - this statement was made by Marije Cornelissen, a Member of the European Parliament, and one of the guests of the gay parade "Rainbow over Dniester". Her words were carried by the website of the organizers (automatic translation here >>) of the celebration of LGBT culture.

Marije Cornelissen traveled from Amersterdam to express solidarity and to support the representatives of the LGBT society, who decided to hold this public rally. She expressed that, from the point of view of a European official, she thinks it is absurd and ridiculous to allow a counter-rally against the event while prohibiting the actual gay parade from taking place.

With specific regard to the prohibition, according to the opinion of the MEP, this step showed how weakly developed democracy in Moldova is. And, although geographically Moldova is located in Europe, it is still far from the level of development of European countries.

"It is hard to hold a discussion when you see that approved plans, and in particular ones within the framework of a good-neighborliness, are not allowed to take place", stated Cornelissen. "For EU officials this means only one thing - Moldova as of yet cannot become a serious partner."

Upon her return to Brussels, Marije Cornelissen promised to raise the issue of this failed parade at the highest level.

Translated by Timothy Grishin