Moldovan president conveys message at Romania Government Roundtable conference

Moldova in recent years has gone through a string of severe economic shocks, the consequences of the war in Ukraine, multiple energy crises and rising inflation, all of which have tested the country’s stability. We have managed to withstand and adapt, and Romania has stood by us when we needed it. President Maia Sandu has made statements to this effect at the Romania Government Roundtable conference, held today in Bucharest and organized by The Economist.

The head of state noted that, in a changing world, Southeast Europe found itself at a critical moment, when freedom and democracy are in danger.

"These pressures are part of a broader effort to weaken and divide our continent. That is why, we must act with clarity and determination. We must build resilience, both offline and online and strengthen the institutions that protect our way of life. This need for resilience is not abstract for Moldova. In recent years, a string of severe economic shocks, the consequences of the war in Ukraine, multiple energy crises and rising inflation have tested our stability and endurance. Yet, we have managed to resist and adapt. Every day, we continue to defend our democracy. And through the support we provide to Ukraine, we contribute to defending European security," Maia Sandu said.

The official highlighted Romania’s support both in overcoming the crises that had affected Moldova and in country’s European path.

"Throughout these trials, we have not been alone. We have received constant support. Romania stood by us when we were in urgent need of energy resources. We benefited from generous assistance for the modernization of our infrastructure. And together, we are developing transport links that enhance our connectivity with the European Union. Romania has always been the strongest supporter of our European path," Maia Sandu emphasized.

The Moldovan president also called for cooperation between states, in order to overcome current challenges.

"No country can face today’s challenges alone. Only by working together, as partners, as a community of shared values, can we protect what we have achieved. Thus, this event will put up for debate how we strive to find solutions to counter the threats in our region, to protect the truth and to build a better future," Maia Sandu stressed.

The Romania Government Roundtable conference is at its first edition and brings together political and institutional leaders, as well as representatives of the business community from Romania, Europe and the United States. The discussions’ agenda focuses on priorities related to the stability, security and economic development of Southeast Europe.