Moldovan President's statements at joint conference with President of Poland

Mr. President Duda, dear Andrzej,

It is a pleasure to be here today in Warsaw. For 33 years, Moldova and Poland have built a relationship based on trust, solidarity and common goals. And I am proud to say that today this partnership is stronger than ever.

Mr. President Duda, thank you — not only for the warm welcome, but also for the constant support you have provided to my country over the years. Your personal involvement, your voice on the international stage and your deep understanding of our region have made a real difference to Moldova.

Poland has long been a source of inspiration for Moldova — through its democratic transformation, economic modernization and its successful path towards European integration. And today, your country continues to be a model to follow.

Just a few weeks ago, Poland became the 20th largest economy in the world, according to the IMF. This is an outstanding achievement that shows the strength of your people and the choices your country has made. Polish families have never lived better — because you've invested in reforms and built a state anchored in European values.

Poland has, in turn, been a beneficiary of solidarity. And now, Poland offers it — generously and with impact. Moldova is one of the countries that has benefited from your support. From the COVID-19 pandemic to the energy crisis and the wave of refugees — and now, on our path to EU accession — Poland has stood by Moldova.

In 2021, when Russia turned gas into a weapon, Moldova made its first gas purchase from the free market — and we turned to a Polish company. Polish assistance is making a real difference in communities across Moldova — modernizing our schools, hospitals and local institutions. You have helped equip our law enforcement bodies with expertise and equipment, in order to stay resilient in an increasingly complex security environment. You have supported Moldovan entrepreneurs — including through financing from the Polish Development Bank for small and medium-sized enterprises.

Our economic ties are also growing. Trade and investment are expanding. And recently, we celebrated a landmark moment: Maspex Group — a true Polish leader and one of the top 100 companies in Central and Eastern Europe — announced a strategic investment in Purcari, a symbol of Moldovan wine. This partnership gives Moldovan products access to a strong regional distribution network, a significant boost for our exports — and sends a clear message that Moldova is open for business.

We are eager to see more Polish companies invest in Moldova — in areas such as the food and agriculture industry, construction, banking and renewable energy sectors. Moldova provides a cost-effective and business-friendly base for access to Romanian and Ukrainian markets. With a smaller internal market, we are compelled, as a country, to build the most competitive export platform in the region, and we want ambitious Polish firms to seize this potential.

Our partnership is not only political or economic — it is also human-based. In Moldova, a small but proud Polish ethnic community continues to preserve its cultural heritage — a legacy of our shared history. And in Poland, the Moldovan Diaspora is building new bridges between our peoples — through work, study, and community life, contributing to the economies of both countries.

We also value Poland's strong voice in Europe. You have brought clarity and conviction to some of the most important debates facing the EU — especially on enlargement, energy and resilience against external threats. And we are grateful that you view Moldova's security as an integral part of Europe's security.

We are on the front line of the hybrid front — defending democracy from cyberattacks, disinformation and illicit financing, while sharing the lessons learned in this new and evolving field with our European partners.

We participate in EU civilian missions. We have joined the EU Civil Protection Mechanism and have, on several occasions, sent firefighters to EU member states. And, like you, we have opened our homes to Ukrainian refugees. Even though our means are modest, we support Ukraine with a clear and strong voice. And let me add this: We are deeply grateful to Poland for the steadfast support given to Ukraine — because, by supporting Ukraine, you are helping to protect Moldova. You are keeping this war — and the empire behind it — away from our borders, away from our homes. Ukraine bears the brunt of this war — and its bravery protects all of Europe. We honor this sacrifice.

I would like to conclude with a few words about Europe. Poland knows better than anyone how much EU membership can change lives. You've seen this in your cities, in your industries, in your households. And now, Moldova follows the same path — with commitment, seriousness and determination. We do not ask for shortcuts. We are doing our homework — because we believe in this project. And because we want to contribute to it.

Just as Poland strengthened the European Union when it joined, Moldova is ready to do the same — for our region, for the security of the borders and for the future of Europe.

Mr. President,

Thank you once again — for your support and friendship. Moldova is proud to stand alongside Poland. And together, we are determined to build a stronger, safer, and more united Europe.

Thank you.