Moldovan parliament speaker in Istanbul discusses Moldova-Turkey relations, elections in Gagauzia

Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu has discussed with Turkish parliament member Kürşad Zorlu, responsible for relations with Turkic states, the strengthening of relations between Moldova and Turkey, as well as the situation in Gagauzia and the upcoming elections in the autonomous region.

The meeting took place during Igor Grosu’s brief stopover in Istanbul, several weeks after the Turkish parliamentarian’s visit to Moldova.

According to the parliament speaker, the discussions also addressed the situation in Gagauzia, including the elections due to be held in the autonomous region.

“We also discussed the situation in Gagauzia, including the upcoming elections in the autonomous region. For us, it is important that Gagauzia develops in peace and stability, as an integral part of Moldova, while preserving and promoting its identity, language and culture,” Igor Grosu said.

The parliament speaker stressed that the ties between the Gagauz people and Turkey can contribute to the development of the autonomy and should serve as a factor bringing people closer together.

“The special connection between the Gagauz people and Turkey should be a bridge that unites people and contributes to the development of the autonomy. We will continue this close and open dialogue with our Turkish partners,” Igor Grosu said.

The elections for the office of Governor (Bashkan) of Gagauzia and for the 35 members of the autonomy’s People’s Assembly (local legislative body) will take place on November 15, 2026. The Central Electoral Commission (CEC) set this date for both elections after the People’s Assembly failed to adopt, within the required timeframe, a decision on the date of the election for the office of Bashkan.

The electoral period for the elections to the People’s Assembly started on August 28, while the electoral period for the office of Bashkan began on September 3. According to the electoral calendar, documents for the registration of candidates may be submitted until October 6, while the electoral campaign for the office of Bashkan will start on October 16.

Intentions to run have already begun to be announced in the region, and the CEC has informed political parties and potential candidates about the rules and procedures of the election. On September 9, in Comrat, the CEC organized an information and dialogue session with electoral stakeholders and representatives of local authorities.

The CEC also announced that 37 political parties were eligible to participate in the elections in Gagauzia.