Sofia authorities declare support and extend cooperation with Chișinău

Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Recean and his Bulgarian counterpart, Rossen Jeliazkov, held a joint press conference today following official meeting in Chișinău. They emphasized the firm commitment to accelerating Moldova's European integration, intensifying regional cooperation, and ensuring energy independence.

"Today we reunite with a friendly and partner country – the Republic of Bulgaria – at a time when the Republic of Moldova is undergoing an important phase of transformation and modernization. We know how to conduct foreign policy that brings results. Not just promises or facade visits, but concrete projects reaching every corner of the country. We have trustworthy relations with all major countries in the region and the European Union, and the partnership with Bulgaria is a convincing example of this," Recean said. 

"Moldova has steadfast friends on its European path, and Bulgaria is an example of solidarity in this regard. Today we discussed how we can learn from Bulgaria's experience in the EU accession process and how we can cooperate more effectively on an institutional level," the prime minister noted.

"The future of Moldova also means the future of the Bulgarian ethnics in Taraclia. It is a European future where every citizen has the chance to live in freedom, dignity and prosperity," the Moldovan official added.

For his part, the Bulgarian Prime Minister reaffirmed his country's unconditional support for Moldova's European path.

"Moldova is not alone. Bulgaria will continue to be a strong advocate for Chișinău in Brussels. The path to the EU is irreversible, and we have every interest in keeping this region stable, democratic, and anchored in European values," mentioned Rossen Jeliazkov.

An important point on the agenda was energy cooperation. Dorin Recean said that Moldova strengthens its energy network in partnership with EU countries, including Bulgaria, to reduce reliance on Eastern resources.

"We also cooperate in energy – a critical area, especially in the context of Russia's war against Ukraine. Moldova has learned that energy security is part of national security. We welcome the signing of the contract between Energocom and Bulgartransgaz – an important step towards diversifying sources and strengthening our energy independence," said Dorin Recean.

"We are working together for an energetically independent Moldova. Bulgaria has valuable experience in diversifying sources and infrastructures, and we are learning from this model. We also discuss concrete projects of regional interconnection," the Moldovan prime minister said.

At the same time, Rossen Jeliazkov added that Bulgaria supports Moldova's initiatives to become part of the European energy market.

"Connectivity means not only infrastructure but also security and solidarity," the Bulgarian official said.

During the conference, officials highlighted the cultural dimension of the bilateral relationship, agreeing to expand academic exchanges, joint projects between museums and art institutions, as well as the promotion of languages and traditions.

"A concrete example is Taraclia University, becoming a branch of Bulgaria's University – the first Bulgarian higher education institution opened outside Bulgaria. It is an extraordinary project, with specialties taught in Bulgarian, Romanian and English, European diplomas, and scholarships for students. It is a clear step towards inclusive and quality education connected with Europe," Recean said.

"Our governance works for the European future of all people – and for all regions of the country. We make policies that unite, not divide. We invest in villages, cities, ethnic and religious communities – because only together can we succeed. This distinguishes us from those who only criticize but do not provide solutions and follow orders from Kremlin," Recean said.

Bulgarian Prime Minister Rossen Jeliazkov is visiting the Republic of Moldova on July 27-28, 2025. After a tête-à-tête meeting and an extended format with the delegation members, Dorin Recean and Rossen Jeliazkov held a joint press conference. Subsequently, the officials will travel to Taraclia district, to meet with representatives of local public authorities. Also, they will participate in the signing ceremony of the agreement whereby the former Taraclia University becomes a branch of Angel Kanchev University of Ruse, Bulgaria.

On 28 July, Rossen Jeliazkov will have meetings with President of the Republic of Moldova Maia Sandu and Speaker Igor Grosu.

The Republic of Moldova established diplomatic relations with the Republic of Bulgaria on 5 February 1992.

Throughout 2024, the Republic of Bulgaria ranked 10th among the main commercial partners of the Republic of Moldova worldwide, with a 2.1% share of the total trade volume. The external trade value of the Republic of Moldova with Bulgaria was recorded as $267.7 million in 2024.