Social

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.

"On this path, it is essential to deliver immediate results for both the people and the business environment. This includes the permanent elimination of quotas for agricultural exports to the European Union, accession to the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA), and the reduction of roaming tariffs," said the President.

The head of state also urged the ambassadors to actively engage in promoting economic diplomacy. They are to contribute to attracting strategic investments in sectors such as manufacturing, modern agriculture, green energy, and information technology, as well as to negotiate new free trade agreements that would expand access for Moldovan products to foreign markets.

Regarding relationships with the diaspora, Maia Sandu requested the boosting of negotiations for bilateral agreements on the recognition of driving licenses with Romania, Italy, the United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates. Additionally, she emphasized the need to finalize social protection agreements with France, Canada, Israel, and Switzerland.

Furthermore, expanding the consular network by opening an embassy in Astana and two consulates in the United States—in Chicago and Sacramento—will make consular services more accessible to Moldovans living abroad.

In terms of security and resilience, priorities include enhancing cooperation with European and international partners to increase the Republic of Moldova's capacity to address hybrid challenges, including those related to the energy sector. Moldova's participation in peacekeeping missions and support for other nations in emergency situations reflects the country’s commitment to regional stability and security.

The Head of State also highlighted the concrete results of foreign policy that have provided direct benefits to Moldovan citizens. These achievements include the opening of 20 new air routes, the recognition of driving licenses from Spain, Israel, France, and Greece, the signing of social security agreements with Italy, Spain, and Latvia, as well as an increase in agricultural exports to the EU by raising quotas for seven products.

Read more

Ministry of Foreign Affairs was not notified of the presence of Moldovan citizens among the victims of the Magdeburg attack
Social

Ministry of Foreign Affairs was not notified of the presence of Moldovan citizens among the victims of the Magdeburg attack

No Moldovan citizen is currently among the victims of the car attack that occurred on Friday evening at the Christmas Market in the German city of Magdeburg, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Chisinau. The ministry reports that the Moldovan embassy in Berlin is in constant communication with German authorities. As of now, the incident has resulted in at least four deaths and approximately 200 injuries. The identities of all the victims have not yet been disclosed, and authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the event.

IMF approves new $1.1 billion installment for Ukraine
International

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."

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

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.