Political

Romania supports Moldova’s EU path amid Ukraine crisis

Romania will assist the Republic of Moldova in strengthening its resilience against hybrid threats and disinformation, according to a joint statement signed on August 31 by Maia Sandu and Klaus Iohannis.

During his visit to Chisinau, the Romanian leader reiterated Romania’s support for Moldova’s European path and for enhancing bilateral cooperation in essential areas such as energy security, defence, and infrastructure modernization.

“The Republic of Moldova’s place is in the European Union,” states the declaration signed by Maia Sandu and Klaus Iohannis. The document reflects both countries' determination to support Moldova’s efforts to become a member of the European Union by 2030 and to cooperate closely to counter any external interference that might undermine this process.

The joint statement also emphasises the importance of maintaining security and stability in the region. Both countries have committed to advancing military cooperation to strengthen Moldova’s defence capabilities and enhance institutional and societal resilience against external challenges.

In the context of the crisis caused by the war in Ukraine, Romania and the Republic of Moldova have committed to prioritising energy interconnection projects and diversifying their energy supply sources.

“Today we know where we are going and what we need to do. Compared to a few years ago, we walk this path with greater determination, stronger institutions, and friends like Romania by our side. Whether it was the first batch of COVID-19 vaccines, diesel for Moldovan farmers, or the urgent supply of electricity when we lost power due to Russia’s bombings in Ukraine, we have always known that we could count on Romania. On behalf of the citizens of the Republic of Moldova, I thank you for all the support and assistance provided. We have a reliable partner in Romania and President Klaus Iohannis. I am confident that we will continue to develop this partnership for the benefit of people on both sides of the Prut River,” Maia Sandu declared during the joint conference held in Chisinau.

“I congratulate you on the historic steps taken towards anchoring into the great European family to which you belong. I know that your efforts are significant, but the benefits will be substantial, and the citizens will experience these benefits in terms of economic growth, infrastructure, and education. I want to assure you that our commitment to supporting you in any crisis situation, including in the energy sector, is stronger than ever. (…) From this podium, I encourage all international partners to support the Republic of Moldova and its citizens,” Klaus Iohannis added.

For over ten years, Romania has been the Republic of Moldova’s main commercial partner, and political relations between the two states have intensified in recent years. The neighbouring country has supported Moldova both during the COVID-19 pandemic and in coping with the consequences of the war caused by Russia in Ukraine. Bucharest is also a steadfast supporter of Moldova’s rapprochement with the European Union.

In recent years, the Chisinau government, with the support of international partners, including Romania, has constructed over 700 km of roads, invested three billion lei in modernising hospitals, and 500 million lei in renovating educational institutions.

Translation by Iurie Tataru

Ecaterina Arvintii

Ecaterina Arvintii

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