Moldovan president on visit to Rome

The Presidency of the Republic of Moldova

President Maia Sandu is in Rome today, where she had meetings with Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and President of the Senate Ignazio La Russa.

“The relations between Moldova and Italy today are better than ever. In Rome, during discussions with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Senate President Ignazio La Russa, I felt Italy's sincere friendship and support for our country,” said the head of state after the meetings.

The discussions focused on strengthening the partnership between Moldova and Italy in the fields of economy, development and security, as well as cooperation in support of European peace and stability.

“The relation between our countries is strengthened by the large Diaspora, respected here for their work, integrity and contribution to the Italian economy,” Maia Sandu noted.

The interlocutors welcomed the coming into force of the bilateral Social Protection Agreement on September 1, 2025, and the Agreement on the Conversion of Driving Licenses on November 8, 2025, in its new form. The Social Protection Agreement ensures that Moldovans who have worked in Italy will receive pensions for their years worked there, whether they choose to remain in Italy or return home. The agreement on the conversion of driving licenses allows the recognition and exchange of all Moldovan licenses, including those that will be issued in the future, eliminating the difficulties previously faced by our compatriots.

Another important topic of discussion was the cooperation to ensure the integrity of electoral processes in Moldova, including the vote of the Diaspora in Italy, and to counter attempts of foreign interference.

In recent years, relations between Moldova and Italy have significantly developed, driven by President Maia Sandu's official visit to Rome in June 2021. Since then, Italy has provided Moldova with financial support of about 90 million euros, primarily directed to social protection and energy efficiency – including a substantial contribution to the Vulnerability Reduction Fund and support for the setting of tens of thousands of smart meters, helping households to reduce their energy expenses.

“We are grateful for Italy's constant support and we will continue together to promote peace, prosperity and the European future of our citizens,” the Moldovan president also said.