Every state is obliged to protect its people from violence and discrimination and to ensure the full and equal enjoyment of human rights, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or sex characteristics.

We reaffirm our commitment to respecting, promoting and protecting the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all, including the right to non-discrimination and the right to peaceful assembly. We also recognise that tolerance and respect for diversity are fundamental in open, democratic societies.

From 15-19 June, the 21st LGBTI "Moldovan Pride Festival" will take place, including a "Solidarity March", to promote and to celebrate equality for all. On this occasion, we would like to express our support and solidarity with the LGBTI people in the Republic of Moldova. We hope the central message of the "Moldova Pride" will be heard loudly and clearly: everyone should be able and free to be themselves, no matter who they are or who they love.

The joint statement is issued by the missions of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Montenegro, The Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, the United States of America and Ukraine.