Romania pledges firm support for Moldova's EU path
The Republic of Moldova's most important project is its accession to the European Union, and Romania has pledged "firm and concrete" support for this path.
This commitment was reiterated by Romanian President Nicușor Dan during a joint press conference with President Maia Sandu, held in the context of his inaugural official visit to the Republic of Moldova as the Romanian head of state.
"My presence here is a guarantee of Romania's continued support for the Republic of Moldova. This is a significant moment for the Republic of Moldova as it embarks on its EU accession process. We share the same set of values and together we hold the same aspirations," Nicușor Dan emphasized.
The official stated that Romania will support the Republic of Moldova both diplomatically and through technical expertise and collaboration in key areas such as energy, infrastructure, education, and investment. Nicușor Dan also discussed a guarantee fund for the Romanian private sector, aimed at stimulating investments across the Prut River.
"We discussed the necessity for Romanian companies to invest more in the Republic of Moldova, as well as joint projects in education. First and foremost, I believe it's very important to congratulate you on your determination to reform the state and, in doing so, to accede to the European Union, which represents a guarantee for prosperity, institutional predictability, and the very security of the Republic of Moldova," Nicușor Dan stated.
The Romanian President expressed optimism that the citizens of the Republic of Moldova will once again demonstrate their civic spirit and commitment to European values in the upcoming autumn parliamentary elections.
"An important stage is approaching on September 28th. I am very optimistic that, as they have demonstrated repeatedly in recent times, the citizens of the Republic of Moldova will exhibit their civic spirit and maintain the European course the country has established for itself," Nicușor Dan reported.
The Republic of Moldova and Romania are more united than ever in the face of regional threats, and accession to the European Union is the sole path to security, prosperity, and democracy, President Maia Sandu noted. The head of state also discussed the hybrid warfare waged by Moscow through manipulation, disinformation, and attacks on democracy, emphasizing that both Moldova and Romania understand how to respond to these threats: through unity, education, joint investments, and closer ties with Europe.
"I am delighted that at Romania's helm, we have a steadfast partner, a person who respects the Republic of Moldova and is a friend to us. We face a difficult journey together, with war in our neighborhood and missiles. This war is not solely with weapons. It is a systematic attack on democracies, on our chosen path. It is an attack that exploits and abuses democratic principles. It is an offensive against those who support Ukraine. Both the Republic of Moldova and Romania understand the implications of this threat. (...) The danger has not disappeared. Therefore, we must remain vigilant, united, and respect each other as partners and friends," Maia Sandu affirmed.
The President thanked the Romanian official for the support provided to Ukraine, as well as for the direct investments in Moldovan infrastructure and economy. She emphasized that joint projects – spanning energy, transport, education, and business – contribute to the irreversible rapprochement of the two countries.
"The Republic of Moldova and Romania are building a common future through concrete projects that benefit the citizens of both countries. Roads, bridges, power lines, gas networks – all financed with European support – are bringing us closer. Ukraine is our shield and yours. Every instance of aid provided to Ukraine is also aid for the Republic of Moldova. Every day Ukraine resists granting the Republic of Moldova another day of freedom. We thank Romania for all the help provided," Maia Sandu concluded.
Romanian President Nicușor Dan was received on Tuesday, June 10th, in Chișinău by Head of State Maia Sandu, during his inaugural official visit to the Republic of Moldova. Later in the evening, he will lay flowers at the Stephen the Great and Holy monument in central Chișinău, hold meetings with Igor Grosu and Dorin Recean at the State Residence, and participate in an official dinner hosted by Maia Sandu. The visit will conclude with a cultural event at the Organ Hall, dedicated to the common European future of Romania and the Republic of Moldova.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
