Moldovan president says Moldova in midst of EU accession process, Romania stands with Moldova on this path, with strong voice in Brussels

Moldova is in the midst of the process of accession to the European Union and Romania stands with us on this path, with experience, concrete support, but above all, with a strong voice in Brussels - a voice that defends our interests and backs our aspirations. President Maia Sandu today made statements to this effect at a joint press conference with her Romanian counterpart Nicusor Dan, in Chisinau.

At the beginning of the news conference, the Moldovan head of state congratulated the Romanian president on his victory in the presidential elections.

"I wholeheartedly congratulate you on your victory in the elections. I am happy that, at the head of Romania, we have a strong partner, a person who respects Moldova and is our friend. The fact that you chose to be here in Chisinau at the beginning of your term is of great significance to us. It is a sign of trust. And it is a promise for the future. We have a difficult road ahead. Russia has chosen war and crime against a nation - a tragedy that reminds us that peace can simply be stolen from you overnight, so it must be defended every day. This war is not just with weapons. It is a war of manipulation, disinformation, fear and division. It is a systematic attack on democracies, on countries like ours, which choose the path of freedom. An attack that exploits and abuses democratic principles, in order to undermine democracy and unity from within," Maia Sandu said.

The official referred to the threats faced by both Moldova and Romania.

"We have been the target of serious attacks meant to weaken and divide us. We have proved that we know how to unite in critical moments. We know how to protect our peace and democracy. We know how to defend our vote. Therefore, we must stay vigilant. We must stay united, defend each other as partners, friends, brothers and sisters. If Moldova were to fall into Russia's hands, not only Chisinau would be threatened, but also Bucharest, Odessa and Europe. More Russian troops at the Dniester. Risk of destabilization and insecurity. We thank Romania for the support provided to Ukraine. This is support that defends not just Ukraine, but also Moldova and Romania. If Russia were to win in Ukraine, it would not stop there," noted Maia Sandu.

The president emphasized that Moldova and Romania were building a common future - through concrete projects that benefit the citizens of both countries.

"Roads, bridges, power lines, gas networks - all financed with European support. All are meant to bring us closer. Energy is, today, security. We are completing the Chisinau-Vulcanesti power line, which will connect us to Romania. Two more power lines are to follow. As of 2027, we will buy Romanian gas from the Black Sea. We want to go further - to conclude a contract for the delivery of electricity from the new reactors at Cernavoda, once they become operational," Maia Sandu stressed.

She added that, at present, over 1,700 Romanian companies were investing in Moldova and about 8,000 Moldovan companies were operating across the Prut River.

"Moldovan companies are finding their place in Romania. There are around 8,000 companies with Moldovan capital, with a turnover of over 3 billion euros, which provide over 20,000 jobs in Romania. And tourism brings us closer. Romania has always been a cherished destination for our citizens and now more and more Romanians from the right bank of the Prut are discovering Moldova. Last year, over 45,000 tourists from Romania visited us - which is almost two-thirds of all visitors. People go where they feel good and at home. However, the queues at the customs remind us that there is still work to be done. I talked to Mr. President about the need to reduce waiting times at the border. The Prut must be a bridge, not an obstacle," the official also said.

An important topic was the country's European integration path, a journey in which "Romania stands with us."

"Moldova is in the midst of the process of joining the European Union. Romania chose this path long ago and has experienced significant changes towards a better life. For those across the Prut who still have doubts - look at how vulnerable Moldova is precisely because it has remained outside the European Union. Look at how large the economic disparities are still between the two banks. We can   remove them only together, within the same European family, with the support of European funds - as happened in Romania," noted Maia Sandu.

The official thanked Romania for every support provided over the years, as well as for the support given within European institutions.

"Thank you for supporting us, encouraging us, and speaking on our behalf where, for now, we do not yet have a seat at the table. But that seat will come, not only because we need support, but also because we have something to offer. Moldova can contribute to a safer Europe - through stability at the Union's borders, through security in the Black Sea region, through a clear voice in the face of threats from the East. We are ready to support efforts for civil protection, peacekeeping and strengthening European values. Moldova does not come just to receive, but comes to contribute, to be part of a stronger and more united Europe - alongside Romania, as is only natural," Maia Sandu added.

President of Romania Nicusor Dan is on his first official visit to Chisinau today. He has held bilateral discussions with the head of state, Maia Sandu. At the same time, the official is set to meet Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu and Prime Minister Dorin Recean.