Moldovan President in talks with Cyprus counterpart

The Republic of Moldova is currently in a window of opportunity — an urgent one that must be seized. It is urgent not only for Moldova but also for Europe. This message was conveyed today by the head of state, Maia Sandu, who is on a visit to Cyprus and held a meeting with President Nikos Christodoulides.

The head of state's visit takes place as Cyprus prepares to take over the Presidency of the Council of the European Union on 1 January.

Maia Sandu said she discussed with her Cypriot counterpart "about the decisive moment Moldova is experiencing on its European path and the crucial role the upcoming Cypriot Presidency of the EU Council can play in advancing our common European future."

The head of state stated that although our countries are on different shores of Europe, we are united by the same aspiration: a whole, free, safe, and prosperous continent.


"This is the first visit of a President of the Republic of Moldova to Cyprus in the last 20 years and takes place at an important moment for both Europe and our bilateral relationship. I hope this visit will provide a new impetus for deepening our ties and contribute to energizing our cooperation," said Maia Sandu.


The two officials discussed a broad agenda: bilateral relations, Moldova's EU accession process, regional security, support and solidarity with Ukraine, as well as the necessary efforts to restore peace on the European continent.


"I conveyed to the President our firm hope that Cyprus, as the state that will hold the EU Council Presidency, will support a credible and ambitious enlargement agenda — one that rewards reforms, strengthens stability across the continent, and demonstrates that the European promise remains alive for those who work for it," the President emphasized.


Maia Sandu appreciated "Cyprus's openness to support a roadmap of the EU Council Presidency that includes advancing Moldova's accession negotiations."


"Thank you for the constructive dialogue today and for Cyprus's openness to support a roadmap of the EU Council Presidency that includes advancing Moldova's accession negotiations, ensuring that enlargement remains a central element of the European Union's strategic vision. As Cyprus takes on the EU Council Presidency, I am confident that our cooperation will deepen and that together, we can advance the vision of a stronger, more secure, and more united Europe," communicated the President.


Maia Sandu emphasized that for our country, joining the European Union is not just a strategic objective, it is the most important national project since gaining independence, "is a survival strategy, in a context where an aggressor continues to threaten our sovereignty."

The President added that Cyprus's transformation after joining the European Union is a powerful example of how EU membership strengthens stability and creates space for development, even in a complex regional context.


"Cyprus understands better than many other states what it means to build resilience, defend sovereignty, and rely on the strength of European unity. The Republic of Moldova faces similar challenges. However, addressing these challenges is not only in Moldova's interest — it's also in Europe's interest. The European Union itself benefits from a stronger, more stable, more democratic Moldova, anchored in the European family. Enlargement has always made the Union safer, more prosperous, and more capable of acting globally. The Republic of Moldova wishes to contribute to this strength of the Union," said Maia Sandu.


The head of state mentioned that "advancing on the European path strengthens the EU's eastern frontier, enhances Ukraine's security, and prevents our next electoral cycle from being exploited by hostile actors who might try to draw the country back into Moscow's orbit."

Meanwhile, Maia Sandu also outlined potential risks in the event of stagnation on the European path.


"If Moldova stagnates, the risks extend beyond our borders: instability on the western flank of Ukraine, a weaker neighborhood for the EU, and a setback for the credibility of the enlargement process. Advancing today helps consolidate a democratic and pro-European Moldova, strengthens regional stability, and supports Europe's broader security," said the head of state.


Maia Sandu is paying an official visit to the Republic of Cyprus today — the country which will take over the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union in the first half of 2026. The agenda included a meeting with President Nikos Christodoulides and with the President of the House of Representatives, Annita Demetriou.

The Republic of Moldova established diplomatic relations with the Republic of Cyprus on February 21, 1992. In our country, there are 307 Moldovan-Cypriot joint companies registered, with a social capital investment of 1,648,000 lei.