Deputy PM: BENELUX - reliable partnership we can consistently rely on

Benelux represents a reliable partnership for us, one we know we can consistently rely on. The relationships with the member states of this format are continually being strengthened and developed in multiple dimensions. Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Mihai Popșoi made the statement at a press conference held alongside the representatives of BENELUX states delegation.

The delegation includes Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg Xavier Bettel, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Belgium Maxime Prévot and Director-General for European Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands Heleen Bakker.

Popșoi said that today's visit reaffirms the close relationships between the countries and provides certainty that the European objectives of the Republic of Moldova enjoy strong support.


"An eloquent example in this regard is the expansion of the diplomatic network. Two years ago, Belgium and the Kingdom of the Netherlands opened embassies in Chișinău, and Luxembourg accredited its first non-resident ambassador in the Republic of Moldova. Just last week, we marked another important step – the inauguration of the new headquarters of the Netherlands Embassy, in the context of expanding the mission team in Chișinău. Today's discussions focused on both bilateral and European developments, as well as the prospects for expanding cooperation. At the same time, our BENELUX partners have reconfirmed support for the Republic of Moldova, both in the EU accession process and in the implementation of necessary reforms," said Popșoi.


The minister emphasized that the Republic of Moldova officially began EU accession negotiations during Belgium's presidency of the EU Council, at the first Moldova-EU intergovernmental conference, held in Luxembourg on June 25, 2024.


"In the key moments of our European path the support provided by these states — founding members of the European Union — has been clear and firm. This support was manifested within the EU Council by backing the next stages of the accession process, by strengthening Moldova-EU political dialogue, and by supporting the European Union's Reform and Growth Plan for the Republic of Moldova, for 2025–2027. Thanks to the support of European partners, including the BENELUX states, the Republic of Moldova has made significant progress on its EU accession path and is making maximum efforts to fully integrate into the European space. Moldova is the first country to sign, in May 2024, a bilateral security and defense partnership with the EU. Additionally, through the European Peace Facility, projects for modernizing the security system, especially in the domains of communications and information technology have been supported," said Popșoi.


He also spoke about achievements in the economic sector. Starting October 5, 2025, commercial banks in the Republic of Moldova will be able to use the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) transfer schemes, which will significantly reduce euro transfer costs between Moldova and EU countries. Furthermore, from January 1, 2026, Moldova's integration into the EU roaming area will allow Moldovan citizens in member states to communicate without additional charges.

The official also mentioned that collaboration relations with Belgium and the Netherlands continue to be excellent, based on dynamic political dialogue and solid cooperation.


"With Belgium, our partnerships in internal affairs directly contribute to strengthening internal resilience and regional security. At the same time, we are running joint projects in the green energy sector and water supply in rural areas, projects that ensure citizens' access to essential resources. We appreciate the support offered by Belgium and Belgian experts in the framework of the PESCO program, thus contributing to strengthening the cybersecurity of the Republic of Moldova. With the Netherlands, we collaborate especially in the area of justice reform, the vetting process, and cybersecurity, including benefiting from the generous support offered by the Dutch side to the EU Partnership Mission (EUPM) for implementing significant projects. We also cooperate in combating hybrid threats and strengthening institutional resilience. The partnership with the Netherlands also covers other essential areas, such as energy security, human rights, and media freedom," added Mihai Popșoi.


During the press conference, the minister reiterated that the elections on September 28 will represent a defining moment for the country's European path and strengthening national sovereignty.


"It is essential that the Republic of Moldova is supported in maintaining stability, especially as we are on the front line of a persistent hybrid war. We appreciate the support of European states for extending the mandate of the EU Partnership Mission in Moldova, allocating the necessary resources, and sending experts for combating hybrid threats. Today's visit confirms the depth and durability of our relations and opens new opportunities for joint projects. The support of the BENELUX states offers confidence to the Republic of Moldova on its way to the great family of the European Union. This collaboration reflects our commitment to peace and prosperity, here at home," Popșoi said.


Benelux delegation's visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations and deepen multilateral cooperation between the Republic of Moldova and the Benelux states, with a focus on European diplomacy, energy security, support for European integration, and development partnerships.

The visit agenda includes meetings with President Maia Sandu and Speaker Igor Grosu. Also, the foreign officials will visit the photovoltaic park in Rădeni, an event that will be followed by a debate with young people from the Republic of Moldova.