Youth from Gagauzia showcase their creativity at the EU ‘Bridges of Friendship’ contest
On 23 January, in Comrat, the award ceremony for the winners of the 14th edition of the Drawing and Essay Contest “Bridges of Friendship and Culture” took place, organized by the European Centre “Pro-Europa” with the support of the European Union. The winners were awarded by the European Union Ambassador to the Republic of Moldova, Iwona Piórko, during her first official visit to Gagauzia since taking office.

The event brought together around 80 participants, including students, teachers, parents, local authorities, and civil society representatives, providing a platform for dialogue and recognition of the creativity of young people in the region.
In her speech, the EU Ambassador to the Republic of Moldova, Iwona Piórko, emphasized the role of young people in bringing Moldova closer to European values and thanked teachers, parents, and the European Centre “Pro-Europa” for their continued commitment to supporting education and culture. She also noted that her visit to Gagauzia gave her the opportunity to discover active communities rich in traditions and cultural diversity.

The 12 finalist works selected by the jury were included in a thematic calendar for 2026, published in Romanian, Gagauz, and Russian.
The annual Drawing and Essay Contest “Bridges of Friendship and Culture” is organized by the European Centre “Pro-Europa” for students in Gagauzia. Over the years, the European Union Delegation to the Republic of Moldova has consistently supported this educational and cultural initiative.
