President Klaus Iohannis of Romania held talks with the visiting President Maia Sandu of Moldova on Thursday in Bucharest, focusing on energy, economic, and security matters. The two leaders aim to strengthen their countries’ relationship as they navigate Russia’s conflict in Ukraine.
President Iohannis’ office stated that the meeting aimed to bring Moldova closer to the European Union, of which Romania is a member. President Sandu later spoke positively of the strategic partnership with Romania, a NATO member, stating that it has produced “concrete benefits.”
According to President Sandu, Moldova is facing numerous challenges, including security issues aimed at destabilizing the region. Both Moldova and Romania share a border with Ukraine.
The visit comes a week after President Sandu alleged that Moscow was plotting to overthrow the Moldovan government and align the country with Russia, hindering its aspirations to join the EU. Russia denies these claims. President Sandu remains steadfast in her determination to move Moldova towards EU membership.
Over the past year, Moldova, a former Soviet republic with a population of 2.6 million, has sought closer ties with Western partners.
Last June, it was granted EU candidate status, the same day as Ukraine. The country has faced several crises since Russia invaded Ukraine, including energy problems, inflation, missiles crossing its skies from the neighbouring conflict, and an influx of war refugees.
President Iohannis affirmed his support for Moldova and stated that it is not alone in facing these challenges.
He condemned any Russian attempts to destabilize the country and remained vigilant towards Russia’s hybrid actions, which have intensified throughout the year-long war.
Russia’s Defense Ministry claimed without evidence that Ukraine was planning an “armed provocation” against the Moscow-backed breakaway region of Transnistria in Moldova.
Russia maintains about 1,500 troops in the region, recognized internationally as part of Moldova. The Moldovan authorities stated that they could not confirm the Russian assertion but would inform the public in case of any danger to the country.
The meeting between President Iohannis and President Sandu was a significant step in strengthening the relationship between Romania and Moldova, particularly amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The two leaders discussed important issues such as energy, economics, and security, and both expressed their commitment to moving Moldova closer to the EU and NATO.
The talks emphasized the importance of maintaining stability and security in the region, and both leaders vowed to support each other in the face of any challenges.
The meeting was a positive step towards a brighter future for both countries, and this strengthened relationship will continue to grow in the coming years.
