Maia Sandu warns of Russian security threat to Moldova, calls for EU accession
Moldova's President Maia Sandu on Tuesday warned that Russia will continue to be an element of insecurity for the country and called for accelerated efforts to join the European Union.
"We must be aware that attempts to overthrow constitutional power will continue," Sandu said at a meeting of Moldovan ambassadors. "Russia will continue to be an element of insecurity for us."
Sandu also said that Moldova is lucky to have the support of Romania, which she called "a very important advocate in our foreign policy."
The president said that Moldova is facing "decisive moments" and that the country's future depends on its ability to maintain peace, stability, and democracy.
"We all know how great the geopolitical challenges are," Sandu said. "The war in Ukraine will continue and we see no signs that it will end soon. That is why we have to take this context into account."
Sandu highlighted four key areas where Moldova needs to focus in the near and medium term:
1. EU accession: Moldova must make continued progress in its efforts to join the EU. "We cannot afford to remain in the grey zone," Sandu said.
2. Revitalising the economy: Moldova needs to work to revitalise its economy and attract foreign investment.
3. Promoting the interests of the diaspora: Moldova needs to work to promote the interests of its citizens who live abroad.
4. Promoting Moldova's role as a provider of security: Moldova needs to work to promote its role as a provider of security in the region.
Sandu said that Moldova has made significant progress in the field of foreign policy in recent years. She cited the country's "significant leap" in relations with EU countries, the organisation of the Foreign Political Community summit, the fight against corruption, and the deepening of relations with G7 member countries.
"Our balanced and consistent active foreign policy has allowed us, despite the border war, to maintain peace, overcome a hard winter and continue reforms," Sandu said.
