Lithuania reaffirms support for Moldova's European path

In the face of current global challenges, a prosperous Europe would not be complete without the membership of Moldova, Ukraine and the Western Balkans. The resources and assistance provided to Moldova remain a priority on the Lithuanian government's agenda and will be expanded, aiming for significant progress in Moldova's EU accession negotiations in the near future. Lithuania's Prime Minister Gintautas Paluckas made the statements during an official visit to Moldova.

Gintautas Paluckas said that the main goal of his visit to Chisinau is to reiterate Lithuania's support for Moldova and government, which has embarked on genuine European reforms for the benefit of its people.


"Lithuania remains a firm supporter of Moldova's European aspirations. This support will never deviate. Now, facing these global challenges, a prosperous, successful Europe would not be complete without the membership of Moldova, Ukraine, and the Western Balkans. We hope to achieve significant progress in Moldova's EU accession negotiations in the near future. Meanwhile, the resources and assistance provided to Moldova remain a high priority on the Lithuanian government's agenda. We continue long-term support projects such as strategic communication and combating misinformation. We will also offer expert support for Moldova's integration path and are ready to further extend the technical expertise and assistance offered," Lithuania's Prime Minister said.


The officials discussed new areas of practical cooperation, including energy, strategic communication, cyber resilience, and civil society support.


"Lithuania is ready to contribute by sharing our experience in countering hybrid threats and providing material support. Our experts participate in NATO and EU rapid response teams to strengthen your resilience ahead of upcoming parliamentary elections," said Gintautas Paluckas.


The two prime ministers also discussed energy-related aspects.


"The energy crisis has highlighted the dangers of threats from Russia. We remain confident that we must promote energy diversification, but this alone is not enough. Lithuania remains prepared to share its expertise, provide technical assistance to Moldova for reforms, and diversify its energy sector," he said.


The official added, "Lithuania has repeatedly emphasized that all democracies globally must unite against totalitarian regimes, primarily to stop Russia's imperial ambitions and achieve a lasting peace in Ukraine."


"I am convinced that Moldova's future is within the European family, and I can promise that Lithuania and my government will work hard to congratulate Moldova as an EU member in the near future," concluded Lithuania's Prime Minister.


Prime Minister Dorin Recean stated at the press conference that his Lithuanian counterpart's visit to Chisinau underscores the sincere friendship and partnership between the two countries, based on a common vision for a united, peaceful, and secure Europe.

 


"Lithuania has always been a firm supporter of Moldova's European path, and together we have stood in solidarity with Ukraine from day one. We advocated for stopping Russia's bloody war in the neighboring country and offered our help. Like my counterpart, I believe that a just peace for Ukraine is the only right path," said Dorin Recean.


The government head highlighted that Lithuania is an active partner of Moldova, contributing through concrete projects in agriculture, green energy, security, and institutional development. He stressed that the total value of these projects exceeds 30 million euros.


"With Lithuanian support, solar panels have been installed in public institutions, the Border Police has been equipped with modern technology, and the army has received ambulances, equipment, and support. Key institutions like the BNM and Competition Council benefit from assistance in aligning with EU standards. We thank you very much for this genuine assistance," said Dorin Recean.


According to statistics, in the past year, trade volume between the two countries increased by over 25 percent, reaching nearly 47 million dollars. In this context, Recean invited Lithuanian companies to invest in Moldova.

Furthermore, a proposal was made to organize a Moldovan-Lithuanian business forum in Chisinau to create more direct contacts between business communities.

Dorin Recean noted that the Moldovan diaspora in Lithuania is represented by Dacia Society, founded in 1989, and in Moldova, there are three ethnocultural associations promoting Lithuanian culture and traditions. "We want to expand these collaborations and promote common European values," said Dorin Recean.

Moldova was the first country to recognize Lithuania's regained independence in spring 1990. In this regard, Recean presented his Lithuanian counterpart with a copy from the national archive of the decision of the first democratically elected Parliament of our country from May 31, 1990, recognizing Lithuania's independence.

 


"Lithuania remains an example of dignity and courage for our country. As a gesture of friendship, I offer you today, 35 years later, a copy from the national archive, the decision of our country's first democratically elected Parliament from May 31, 1990, recognizing Lithuania's independence. Thank you for your constant support and good cooperation, and we are confident that together we will continue to build a common European future based on democratic values, prosperity, and peace," concluded Dorin Recean.


Paluckas is on an official visit to Moldova today.

VIDEO: Press conference held by Moldova's Prime Minister Dorin Recean and Lithuania's Prime Minister Gintautas Paluckas.