Moldovan president, European Commissioner discuss European path, resilience of Moldova

President Maia Sandu today met European Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management Hadja Lahbib, on a visit to Chisinau. The head of state emphasized that Moldova’s preparedness to face challenges and crises also contributed to the security of the European Union.

During the discussion, the president noted that Moldova was strengthening its resilience in the face of various types of crises. Over the past year, the country has established a national crisis management system, which will continue to be developed, so that the population can be warned quickly and institutions can respond in a coordinated way.

The interlocutors discussed cooperation within the European Union Civil Protection Mechanism, in which Moldova has participated with full rights since 2024. Through this mechanism, the country has received support in more situations, including during the energy crisis and following the pollution of the Dniester River, caused by Russian attacks on Ukraine. Moldova also provides assistance, in turn: in last summer, Moldovan firefighters participated in extinguishing fires in Greece for the fourth time.

The discussion also focused on support for refugees from Ukraine. The Moldovan president drew attention to the fact that Russia’s attacks on Ukraine’s energy system could make the winter difficult and Moldova will continue to provide support.

The sides also addressed topics related to non-discrimination, gender equality and combating domestic violence. The president reiterated that Moldova was building a society in which every citizen has the opportunity to reach his/her full potential. Maia Sandu said that the country was committed to strengthening mechanisms to protect women from violence and welcomed European support in this area.

A separate topic was Moldova’s European path. The head of state noted that Moldova’s institutions are making considerable efforts to align legislation with European standards and requested the European Commission’s support for opening all negotiating clusters.