VIDEO // German Foreign Minister: Moldova achieved remarkable progress in EU accession process. It is very important not to slow down pace of reforms

The Republic of Moldova has achieved remarkable progress in the process of accession to the European Union. It is very important not to slow down the pace of reforms, because the people of Moldova are part of the European family. The message was delivered today by German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul during a press conference held jointly with Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popșoi in Berlin.

The German official stressed that the Republic of Moldova has been confronted with Russia’s war of aggression since the very beginning of the invasion of Ukraine.

“The country is being subjected to massive disinformation and aggression from Russia. Among our means of support is the assistance we provide to Moldova in combating destabilization threats, including through fake news. I assure you that in the future we will always stand by the Government of the Republic of Moldova in fulfilling the collective desire for freedom and democracy, which is felt throughout the country. In the EU accession process, Moldova has achieved remarkable progress. You must not slow down the pace of reforms. We appreciate your efforts in the process of reintegrating the country as well,” Johann Wadephul stated.

The German minister reaffirmed his support for Ukraine and highlighted the impact of the war on regional security.

“This war has direct effects on the Republic of Moldova, and I am referring to the disruption of the electricity supply process. In addition, several drones have reached your territory and have directly endangered the safety of citizens. Russia’s aggressive war against Ukraine represents a violation of international law and will remain a regional problem. Together with Moldova, we will engage and support a peaceful, secure and democratic future in Europe,” Johann Wadephul underlined.

Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popșoi noted that, during the discussions, the Republic of Moldova’s firm commitment to continue reforms and advance in the process of European integration was reiterated.

“The visit to Berlin comes after the inauguration of the Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Moldova in Hamburg – a step that reflects the maturity of our bilateral cooperation and consolidates our institutional presence in Germany, as well as our respect for our community and for our German partners. Our cooperation is aimed at a joint project for peace, prosperity and the rule of law. Germany remains a consistent supporter of this process, and its bilateral and European support is decisive. The reforms we are implementing are complex but absolutely necessary to firmly anchor the Republic of Moldova in the European value space. Justice reform, combating corruption, making the public administration more efficient and strengthening the economy are the essential pillars of this accession process. We will continue with the same determination, because European integration is not a slogan, but a firm commitment to our citizens,” Mihai Popșoi remarked.

The minister stressed that the war against Ukraine continues to affect the entire region, given that the security of the Republic of Moldova is part of European security. “Although we are a small state, we have a responsible and respected voice in regional and international strategic debates. From the first days of the war, the Republic of Moldova offered humanitarian support to Ukrainian citizens. We have been and remain a solid partner. We aim to contribute actively to Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts. We have reflected our regional position in our role as a logistical and economic hub in this process,” Mihai Popșoi specified.

Germany is one of the main economic partners of the Republic of Moldova. Around 430 companies with German capital operate in our country, with investments totaling almost one billion lei, which places Germany among the top investors.

“The projects implemented in partnership with the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development are essential for the modernization of public administration, energy efficiency, infrastructure and the development of the business environment. In the period 2024–2025, these initiatives have totaled more than 86 million euros, and in 2026 they will support investment efforts to attract investors through the organization of Moldova Business Week. We invite German companies in the field of advanced technologies to explore the opportunities offered by the innovation sandboxes in the Republic of Moldova,” Mihai Popșoi stated.

The head of Moldovan diplomacy thanked Germany for its constant support.

“In a European context marked by profound transformations, our cooperation sends a clear message: the future of Europe is built through unity, mutual support and respect for the values that define us. Thank you for the constant support given to the Republic of Moldova and for the sincere friendship that Germany shows to our people. I am convinced that together we will continue to strengthen a relationship that honors the past, responds to the challenges of the present and confidently shapes our common European future,” Popșoi concluded.

Mihai Popșoi is paying a working visit to Hamburg and Berlin, Federal Republic of Germany on March 3–5 this year. The visit takes place at the invitation of his German counterpart, Johann Wadephul. The agenda of the visit includes several meetings with German officials.