Ireland supports Chisinau’s European path

Ireland is committed to supporting the Republic of Moldova on its path to joining the European Union. The statement was made in Chisinau by Ireland’s Minister for European Affairs and Defence Thomas Byrne. The Irish official also noted that, thanks to the Moldovan diaspora, there is currently a strong relationship between the two countries.

“Ireland supports the European path of the Republic of Moldova. I can commit to supporting you, whether during the period in which Ireland will hold the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, or as an EU member state. We will continue to help you along this path, so that you can come to sit at the European table, contribute actively and benefit from all the advantages it offers,” the minister stated.

At the same time, the official stressed that he values the Moldovan community in Ireland and that it is the citizens of the Republic of Moldova who have strengthened relations between the two states.

“Our relations in fact began with the Moldovan community in Ireland. We consider Moldovans to be very hard‑working, productive and engaged in the life of our society and our country. And what I can say is that Moldovans living in Ireland actively contribute to its development and are appreciated for their dedication,” the minister added.

Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Cristina Gherasimov noted that Ireland is a relevant model for the Republic of Moldova in the process of European integration.

“Ireland is for us a clear example of how European integration can transform a country through investment, innovation and opportunities offered to citizens. In parallel, the bilateral relationship between the Republic of Moldova and Ireland is experiencing unprecedented development. The opening of the Embassy of Ireland in Chisinau this year will be a defining moment. We already have concrete results: we are close to finalizing the agreement on the mutual recognition of driving licences and are preparing to launch negotiations on a social security agreement, which will bring direct benefits to our citizens,” Cristina Gherasimov stated.

The Deputy Prime Minister also added that the Moldovan diaspora in Ireland represents a solid bridge between the two countries.

“Thousands of Moldovans live and work there, contributing actively and strengthening this relationship day by day,” Cristina Gherasimov mentioned.

Gherasimov recently paid a visit to Ireland, and held a series of official meetings in Dublin with Irish political and parliamentary leaders, including John Lahart, Chair of the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade, Barry Ward, Chair of the Committee on European Union Affairs, and Senator Martin Conway, Chair of the Ireland–Moldova friendship group.

During the visit, Gherasimov took part, together with political analysts, representatives of the academic community and experts from Irish civil society, in a round table, organized by the Institute of International and European Affairs, highlighting appreciation for Moldova’s efforts in advancing its European path and the country’s resilience in the face of disinformation and propaganda.