Moldovan foreign affairs minister says Moldova set to open negotiations for final two clusters, counts on support of EU member states

The experience of the member states of the Central European Initiative (CEI) has helped Moldova implement important projects and carry out the reforms necessary for EU accession. Support from CEI partners is essential for the country’s European path. Deputy Prime Minister, Foreign Affairs Minister Mihai Popsoi today made statements to this effect at the annual meeting of the foreign affairs ministers of CEI member states, hosted by Romania, which holds the organization’s rotating presidency in 2026.

The discussions focused on the enlargement of the European Union and support for the European integration of candidate countries, resilience in the face of hybrid threats, the development of connectivity and intensified cooperation among CEI member states.

In his address, Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popsoi emphasized the importance of regional cooperation for Moldova in its process of accession to the European Union. The official highlighted the role of the CEI in facilitating the exchange of experience, promoting best practices and strengthening the institutional capacities necessary to advance reforms and move closer to European standards.

The Moldovan foreign minister also reaffirmed Moldova’s support for Ukraine and the importance of supporting joint efforts to rebuild the neighboring country.

“The Russian Federation’s war of aggression against Ukraine stays the most serious challenge to regional security. Therefore, supporting Ukraine is an investment in the security and stability of our entire region,” Mihai Popsoi said.

The minister also drew attention to the risks facing Moldova, ranging from drone violations of its airspace to cyberattacks against digital public services. In the context, Mihai Popsoi stressed the need for closer cooperation in the field of cybersecurity and the protection of critical infrastructure. He also welcomed the inclusion in the CEI’s new Action Plan for 2027–2030 of priorities dedicated to the development of digital infrastructure and countering hybrid threats.

Mihai Popsoi also reviewed Moldova’s progress in its accession negotiations with the European Union and advocated for each candidate country to be assessed on the basis of its own merits and results.

“Moldova is set to open negotiations for the final two remaining clusters and is counting on the support of the EU and its member states to advance along its European path. The Central European Initiative has an important role in this process by facilitating dialogue and joint efforts in support of a more stable and connected Europe,” Mihai Popsoi emphasized.

During the meeting, the participating states adopted a joint declaration and approved the CEI’s new Action Plan for 2027–2030, which will guide the organization’s activities in the coming years.

The meeting marked the end of Romania’s term in the rotating presidency of the CEI, a responsibility that will be taken over by Ukraine in 2027.

Moldova became a member of the Central European Initiative on November 8, 1996, and held the organization’s presidency in 2008 and 2023. During its 30 years of membership, the CEI has represented an important platform for regional cooperation, the exchange of expertise, and support for reforms in the context of the European integration.