Moldovan PM attends event dedicated to International Day of Ukrainian Shirt “Vyshyvanka”

Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu has taken part in a festive event organized in Chisinau on the occasion of the International Day of the Ukrainian Shirt “Vyshyvanka”. In his address, the PM emphasized that the vyshyvanka is more than just an element of traditional Ukrainian clothing. It represents a symbol of identity, dignity, roots and courage of the Ukrainian people, and in recent years it has become a symbol of resistance and freedom.

“Today, by wearing the vyshyvanka, we carry with us a part of the history, dignity, and spirit of a people who, even in the most difficult moments, chose to remain free. Through this gesture, we send a simple and sincere message to the Ukrainian people: you are not alone. Moldova stands by you, respects you, supports you and believes in the victory of freedom,” said Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu.

The PM reiterated Moldova's solidarity with Ukraine and Ukrainian citizens, noting that the country had chosen to respond with humanity and support to the challenges generated by the war: “Moldova and Ukraine share more than a border. We share the same wish for peace and a secure European future for our children. The Moldovan ‘ia’ is the sister of the Ukrainian shirt,” said Alexandru Munteanu.

The Day of the Ukrainian Shirt “Vyshyvanka” is annually celebrated on the third Thursday of May and promotes the preservation of Ukrainian traditions, culture, and identity. The holiday was initiated in 2006 at the Yuriy Fedkovych National University in Chernivtsi, as a student initiative to wear the traditional Ukrainian shirt. Over time, this initiative has expanded internationally, becoming a symbol of the unity of Ukrainians around the world, of national dignity and of respect for cultural heritage.