NGO asks new legislature to make Russian a state language so that "we don't end up being completely stupid"

The Moldova-Russia International Association for Friendship and Cooperation held a press conference today, asking the new legislature to make Russian an official language in the country. Romanian (called Moldovan in the Constitution) is currently the only official language.

Constantin Munteanu, a Moldovan writer, told the press that the policy is necessary "so that we don't end up being completely stupid." Iurie Maximov, co-President of the Association, also said Russian should be a language for inter-ethnic communication.

Mr. Munteanu added that anyone who does not know Russian literature is "fundamentally stupid."

At one point during the press conference, a few journalists began arguing with the NGO members, asking why Russian speakers do not learn Romanian. "They will, don't worry about it," Mr. Munteanu promised.

The Association members also said that they have had good ties with the former Communist Government, including former Prime Minister Zinaida Greceanii and acting President Vladimir Voronin.

h/t www.jurnal.md
www.protv.md