Mihai Popșoi at the European Parliament: "Moldova's security is part of Europe's security"
The European Parliament will persist in its support for strengthening the Security and Defence Partnership between the European Union (EU) and the Republic of Moldova, as well as for Moldova's European aspirations. These commitments were conveyed by Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, the Chair of the European Parliament's Committee on Security and Defence (SEDE), during her meeting with Acting Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popșoi.
Discussions between the two officials focused on security developments in the region and the effects of the Russian Federation's aggression against Ukraine on the Republic of Moldova.
The Chair of the European Parliament's Committee on Security and Defence emphasized that the Republic of Moldova is one of the EU's closest partners in the Eastern Neighbourhood and is encountering a challenging security environment due to the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Acting Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popșoi outlined the primary risks facing Moldova, which include violations of airspace by Russian drones, cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and attempts to interfere in democratic processes.
He also shared the measures that authorities have taken to strengthen state institutions, develop defense capabilities, and enhance resilience against hybrid threats.
The acting Minister of Foreign Affairs in Chisinau expressed appreciation for the EU's support through the European Peace Facility. He noted that the recent approval of a new assistance package worth 120 million euros represents a strong signal of European solidarity and is crucial for bolstering the country's defense capabilities.
Mihai Popșoi also pointed out the opening of accession negotiations for Cluster 6 — "External Relations." This reflects the Republic of Moldova's progress in foreign policy, security, and defense, as well as the country's commitment to continue reforms and to contribute actively to European security.
"Today, the security of the Republic of Moldova is part of European security. Our country is better equipped to defend itself than we were a few years ago. We have made significant advancements in cyber defense and in countering Russian hybrid operations. With EU support, we continue to strengthen our resilience and implement necessary reforms to advance the accession process," concluded Mihai Popșoi.
