Moldova foreign policy 2026: Economic diplomacy and EU goals
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will steer its 2026 agenda toward concrete objectives with a direct impact on citizens' lives.
These priorities range from boosting exports and attracting foreign investment to making consular services more accessible for the diaspora and accelerating European Union accession negotiations.
Foreign Minister Mihai Popșoi outlined these strategic goals in a recent interview with the MOLDPRES news agency. According to the minister, 2026 must be the year where foreign policy translates clearly into economic prosperity and real opportunities for citizens, both at home and abroad.
Economic diplomacy at the core of external action
A major priority for the ministry involves strengthening economic diplomacy as a direct tool to support the national economy. Mihai Popșoi emphasized that diplomatic missions will take a more proactive role in promoting Moldova’s economic interests.
"We aim to protect our citizens' interests and showcase the best of our country—promoting exports and attracting vital investment," Popșoi stated. He added that the ministry is reinforcing its institutional capacity to ensure that diplomatic efforts contribute directly to the nation's economic growth and the well-being of its people.
Enhanced consular support for the diaspora
Supporting Moldovans living abroad remains a pillar of the 2026 strategy. The ministry plans to expand access to consular services and open new diplomatic missions in regions with large Moldovan communities.
The minister committed to providing "high-quality and timely" consular support. "We will ensure that the Republic of Moldova continues to have devoted, sincere friends who assist us in times of need and celebrate our successes," Popșoi noted.
Culture and traditions as tools for development
Promoting cultural identity is more than a matter of pride; it is an essential component of foreign policy. Moldova already holds a seat on the UNESCO Executive Board, and the cobza was recently recognized as part of the international intangible cultural heritage.
"We will continue to highlight our culture, traditions, and the unique elements that define us, including winemaking and tourism," the minister said. He emphasized that seeking UNESCO protection brings significant economic benefits by putting Moldova’s heritage on the global map.
Accelerating EU accession negotiations
European integration remains the central strategic objective. Authorities in Chișinău aim to open all remaining negotiation clusters in the coming period, allowing the process to advance simultaneously across all chapters.
"We want the opening and closing of chapters to move at an accelerated pace," Popșoi declared. He pointed to the European Commission's enlargement report, which noted that Moldova made the most significant progress among all candidate countries in the past year.
Early integration into European programs
Even before full EU membership, Moldova aims to integrate into as many European programs and projects as possible. "This is about securing direct benefits for our citizens in the country and the diaspora long before the official accession date," Vice Prime Minister Mihai Popșoi concluded.
The 2026 priorities signal a shift toward a more pragmatic, results-oriented diplomacy, firmly anchored in European space.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
