Romania's accession to the Schengen area from January 1, 2025: Significant benefits for Moldovan citizens

Romania's accession to the Schengen Area on January 1, 2025, offers several benefits for Moldovan citizens, streamlining the travel process within the European Union, reads a statement from the Border Police. Some of the key advantages for Moldovan citizens include enhanced mobility, easier travel and tourism opportunities, and support for the European integration process of Moldova.

Correspondence from Bucharest // Romanian MPs and senators take oath of allegiance on Saturday

The new Romanian deputies took the oath today after they had their first meeting yesterday. The 446 senators and MPs will form the new Legislative, which will vote on the country's new government in the coming days. The pro-European parties are still negotiating to form the Executive, which is still led by the current Prime Minister, Social Democrat Marcel Ciolacu.

Daniel Vodă about the state of emergency: “The government is managing the challenges generated by Russia’s destabilizing tactics”

The government has requested the establishment of a state of emergency due to a complex situation that poses a risk of a humanitarian crisis on the left bank of the Nistru. This situation arises from the actions of the Russian Federation and uncertainties regarding gas supplies to the Transnistrian region. Government spokesman Daniel Vodă provided these clarifications after some opposition MPs expressed concerns about the state of emergency declared by the Legislative. He emphasized that the legislation of the Republic of Moldova recognizes the state of emergency as a necessary tool for managing crises.

IMF approves new $1.1 billion installment for Ukraine

The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has approved a new $1.1 billion tranche for Ukraine under its Extended Fund Facility (EFF). IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva stated that "Russia's war in Ukraine continues to have a devastating social and economic impact on the country. Despite the ongoing invasion, macroeconomic stability is being upheld through effective policymaking by the Ukrainian authorities, as well as significant external support."

Maia Sandu: Moldova's accession to the European Union is a foreign policy priority

Moldova's accession to the European Union is a foreign policy priority, reaffirmed by citizens during the constitutional referendum vote, stated President Maia Sandu in a videoconference with the country’s ambassadors. She emphasized that key priorities include increasing the disbursement of European funds from the €1.8 billion investment plan provided by the EU. According to her, this Growth Plan will enhance economic development through investments in infrastructure, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, and job creation.

Tragedy in the German city of Magdeburg // Two people died, over 60 injured. Maia Sandu: We firmly condemn violence in all forms

Two people, including a child, died and at least 60 others were injured after a man drove his car into a crowd at the Christmas Market in the German city of Magdeburg, located in the center of the country. The official toll is not final, with German media reporting that several people lost their lives. The man who drove his car into the crowd was detained and was questioned overnight. He is a Saudi Arabian doctor. The motive for the attack is still unclear, but authorities say it was a suspicious attack.

Winter Solstice 2024. Astronomical winter starts today

Today, December 21, is expected to be the shortest day of 2022, and the night around December 22 – the longest. Astronomical winter begins, related to the movement of the Earth around the Sun.

Cold weather and rain expected throughout the country

This weekend will bring cooler temperatures and light rain across much of the country. The State Hydrometeorological Service reports that rain is expected on Saturday, with predominantly cloudy skies.

Moldova’s billion theft: State bonds, loan recovery, and legal reforms

More than 24.5 billion lei will be paid from the state budget by 2041 to service the state bonds issued to cover the gap caused by the billion-dollar theft.

Ukraine cuts off Russian gas transit

Russian gas transit through Ukraine will cease on January 1. Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal stated that this will occur at 7:00 AM local time, due to the expiration of the relevant agreement, according to Reuters.

Infographic // Moldova boosts industry with new investment program

The Ministry of Economic Development and Digitalization has launched a new support mechanism to stimulate domestic industrial investments between 2025 and 2036.

Moldova expands poultry exports to EU

Starting January 1, 2025, Moldovan farmers who raise poultry can sell their products in the European Union.