Moldovan president proposes Moldova–Finland dialogue on resilience in Helsinki

President Maia Sandu today in Helsinki proposed a structured dialogue between Moldova and Finland on resilience, during discussions with Finnish President Alexander Stubb. “We have much to learn from Finland: its security model, which involves the entire society, the preparation of people for crisis situations and the sense of calm that comes from being prepared,” the head of state said at the joint news conference.

According to the head of state, Moldova is responding to pressure from Russia by strengthening itself: it is investing in air defense, protecting its elections and has reduced its dependence on Russian gas from 100 per cent to zero.

The two presidents also discussed Finland’s support for Moldova’s accession to the European Union. “What helps us move forward, despite energy crises, a war at our border, and an economy under pressure, is our determination to join the European Union, a union in which countries support and defend one another. Finland made this choice in 1995. We are making the same choice today, for the same reasons,” the Moldovan President said.

For his part, Finnish President Alexander Stubb said: “Moldova is important for Europe’s security. Moldova’s place is in the European Union. Moldova is part of the family of European liberal democracies. Moldova and its citizens have demonstrated resilience and a firm commitment to their European future. I admire your personal commitment to this agenda. Finland stays firmly committed to supporting Moldova on its path toward joining the European Union—as soon as possible. I believe we now have a strategic window of opportunity and must make the most of it.”

During her visit, the head of state is also holding meetings with Prime Minister Petteri Orpo and Parliament Speaker Jussi Halla-aho, and will participate, together with President Stubb, in the opening of the Helsinki Security Forum.

The Helsinki Security Forum is Finland’s most important international security conference, organized each year by the Finnish Institute of International Affairs under the patronage of President Alexander Stubb. This year’s edition brings together more than 350 officials and experts from around the world.

Full text of the President Maia Sandu’s press statements.