Cypriot Minister for European Affairs says Cyprus firmly supports EU enlargement, to promote Moldova's accession during its EU Council Presidency

Cyprus stays a strong supporter of the European Union's enlargement and after taking over the EU Presidency, it will promote Moldova's accession on its agenda. Minister for European Affairs of Cyprus Marilena Raouna today made statements to this effect at a joint press conference with Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Cristina Gherasimov.

The European official noted that the discussions with Deputy Prime Minister Cristina Gherasimov and President Maia Sandu had focused on the progress made in promoting reforms and establishing a roadmap to achieve tangible results during Cyprus's EU Presidency.

“We reiterated Cyprus's support for Moldova's European path and Cyprus's commitment to advancing the European enlargement agenda. Cyprus is preparing for an ambitious and results-oriented presidency, guided by a clear vision: a stronger and more resilient Union, a union that provides much more to its citizens. More unity, more integration,” said Marilena Raouna.

The Cypriot official expressed her admiration for the authorities and the people of Moldova, who, with determination and courage, promote reforms and strengthen democratic institutions, despite external pressures and hybrid threats.

“Together, we can make progress in the EU accession process for Moldova, provide tangible results. We believe that Moldova’s future is in the European Union,” the Cypriot minister added.

For her part, Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Cristina Gherasimov highlighted the importance of the visit to Chisinau by Cyprus's Minister for European Affairs ahead of Cyprus taking over the rotating Presidency of the EU Council.

“Your presence here today once again shows how important European solidarity is and speaks of the concrete support that Cyprus provides us on our way to the European Union, all the more important as your country will hold and coordinate the Rotating Presidency of the EU Council as of January 1, 2026, for the next 6 months. This visit is a clear proof that Moldova is an important partner for the EU, and the EU is interested in continuous dialogue, at the same discussion table, a dialogue based on trust and respect for our country”.

At the same time, Cristina Gherasimov expressed her gratitude for the constant support provided by Cyprus, "whether political, economic, or technical".

“Practical solidarity also matters greatly, namely the expertise we can draw from Cyprus, projects and partnerships that deliver results. The Presidency you will hold will be an opportunity to put essential subjects on the European agenda, in order to strengthen regional stability,” the deputy minister noted.

In conclusion, Gherasimov reiterated the fact that there was no alternative to joining the European Union for Moldova:

“If we want to remain a free state, a democratic state, a state where dignity is at home, we will work with determination, transparency and responsibility, in order to carry out the necessary reforms and ensure a European future for our citizens”.

During the bilateral meeting, Marilena Raouna and Cristina Gherasimov also discussed the importance of the energy independence, as well as the use of European Union support instruments, such as the Growth Plan for Moldova, worth 1.9 billion euros, meant for boosting the economy and creating new jobs.