Foreign affairs minister meets Austrian Ambassador to Moldova; discussions focus on EU integration, strengthening bilateral cooperation

Deputy Prime Minister, Foreign Affairs Minister Mihai Popsoi today met new Ambassador of Austria to Moldova Martina Hermann, on the occasion of the beginning of her mandate in the country. The discussions focused on advancing Moldova’s process of accession to the European Union, developing economic and investment relations, as well as cooperation in the areas of security and combating hybrid threats.

The Moldovan diplomacy head welcomed Ambassador Martina Hermann’s assumption of office, wished her success in carrying out her mandate and expressed appreciation for Austria’s continued support for Moldova’s European path. In the context of the progress made in the accession negotiations, the minister stressed the importance of maintaining the pace of reforms and capitalizing on the opportunities offered by gradual European integration.

“Austria is a trusted partner and a strong supporter of the European Union’s enlargement. The experience of previous enlargements shows that European integration brings benefits both to new member states and the ones that are already part of the Union. We want to capitalize on this potential in Moldovan-Austrian relations as well, through increased investment, joint projects and economic opportunities,” Mihai Popsoi said.

The Moldovan minister welcomed the organization of an Austrian business mission to Chisinau on October 20-22 and the sides discussed the investment opportunities provided by the European Union’s Growth Plan for Moldova. The officials also addressed the exchange of experience in combating disinformation and foreign interference, as well as the need for more effective international mechanisms to respond to these threats.

For her part, Ambassador Martina Hermann praised Moldova’s progress in the European Union accession process and the authorities’ efforts to implement reforms. Martina Hermann highlighted the interest of Austrian companies in the Moldovan market and mentioned the positive developments of the Austrian School project, a concrete example of bilateral cooperation in education.

The parties agreed to continue the political dialogue and encourage the development of partnerships at the economic, institutional and local levels.

The diplomatic relations between Moldova and Austria were established on March 25, 1992.