Austria's Foreign Minister: We actively support independence and resilience of Moldova

The expansion of the European Union, including the accession of the Republic of Moldova to the EU is very important for Austria. We actively support the independence and resilience of the country – and we will continue to do so. Austria's Federal Minister for European and International Affairs Beate Meinl-Reisinger made the statement today at a joint press conference with Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popșoi in Chișinău.

The Austrian official appreciated Moldova's resistance to attacks from the Russian Federation, in the context of 'massive attempts to destabilize the situation and impose influences through disinformation actions.'


'I can only congratulate you on this resilience. Regarding the accession of the Republic of Moldova to the EU, I confirm once again that Austria is a reliable partner and we very much hope that discussions on the clusters will be opened soon. I assure you that we will provide all the necessary support. We are reliable partners and will continue to support you in the EU accession process,' said Beate Meinl-Reisinger.


The official emphasized that an important point in the bilateral partnership is the economic domain, with Austria being a significant investor in the Republic of Moldova. The opening on September 1 of the Austrian College with an electronic and IT profile in Chișinău, the first Austrian School Abroad educational project in the Republic of Moldova was also welcomed.


'Our partnership is based on a shared vision for a peaceful, secure, and stable future for Europe – an objective more important than ever in these difficult times. We actively support the independence and resilience of the Republic of Moldova – and we will continue to do so. Therefore, Austria is a firm supporter of Moldova's accession to the European Union, as well as its reform path. Our countries are also close economic partners. Austria is the tenth largest investor in Moldova. The strong growth in exports to Moldova clearly shows: Austria remains a reliable partner – today and in the future. We want prosperity and job opportunities in the Republic of Moldova,' concluded Beate Meinl-Reisinger.


Popșoi said that today's visit reaffirms the excellent collaborative and friendly relations between the two states, with Austria being a loyal supporter of our country's European path.


'The Republic of Moldova is a priority country for development assistance granted by the Austrian Government. Currently, there are 13 projects implemented in our country supported financially by the Republic of Austria through the Austrian Development Agency (ADA), with a total budget of over 32 million euros. These projects support sustainable rural development, environmental protection, and promote equal opportunities on the labor market, bringing direct benefits to the population and contributing to economic growth and the strengthening of community resilience in Moldova,' said Mihai Popșoi.


In the Republic of Moldova, 91 enterprises with Austrian capital are registered, with a total invested capital amounting to 952.45 million lei.


'In 2024, the volume of trade between the Republic of Moldova and Austria reached 124.73 million US dollars, an increase of 14.63% compared to 2023 (108.81 million dollars). There are opportunities to expand cooperation in the fields of green energy, automotive industry, IT, agriculture, and the banking system, including through the involvement of Austrian companies in free economic zones. We also appreciate regional collaboration with federal states, which we consider essential for strengthening relations between our communities. Austria remains a reliable partner of the Republic of Moldova in promoting sustainable development, democracy, and resilience. The Republic of Moldova is deeply grateful to the Austrian authorities and people for their friendship, dedication, and support. Our country is a credible partner and a friendly state, sharing European values and hoping that, with your support, it will become a full member of the European Union as soon as possible,' stated Mihai Popșoi.


Thus, the minister pointed out that the best action we can take to advance towards European integration is 'to diligently do homework.'


'This is what we are trying to do, and without lack of modesty, I would say that we are making progress, advancing on the path of European integration and overcoming those 30 years when we could have moved forward but did not. I am referring to the reforms we are implementing, concerning the independence of the judiciary and combating corruption, strengthening state institutions in all domains, fortifying human rights, and improving economic competitiveness. We are striving to meet the expectations of our citizens and to fulfill the commitments made to our European partners. Therefore, we consider a conscientious approach to these commitments the main guarantee to progress on this path of European integration,' Mihai Popșoi added.


Beate Meinl-Reisinger is visiting Chișinău today. The purpose is to strengthen bilateral relations between the Republic of Moldova and the Republic of Austria through official meetings and joint projects in the European diplomacy, economic and social cooperation. During the visit, Beate Meinl-Reisinger will have a meeting with head of state Maia Sandu and Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Cristina Gherasimov.

This is the Austrian official's first working visit to Chișinău. Diplomatic relations between the two countries were established on 25 March 1992.