Chișinău, 31 May 2022 (TDI): The President of the Republic of Moldova, Maia Sandu held virtual talks with the President of Portugal, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa.
They discussed the security situation in the region and the means to strengthen the bilateral cooperation between the two countries.
Additionally, the meeting also included discussions on the reform agenda of Moldova and its efforts to become a member of the European Union.
A pleasure to talk 🇵🇹President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa today. Discussed the security situation in the region & ways to strengthen our 🇲🇩-🇵🇹 cooperation. Discussed 🇲🇩ambitious reform agenda & our bid to join the #EU family. pic.twitter.com/HUTZ7XGnR7
— Maia Sandu (@sandumaiamd) May 30, 2022
Russia-Ukraine war and security risks
Due to the Russia-Ukraine war, security risks for the neighboring countries in the region have been raised.
This year, Moldova raised up security operations following the reports of explosions that raised concerns about Russia seeking to broaden the scope of its conflict with neighboring Ukraine.
President Sandu assembled a meeting of her security council after reports of explosions in Transnistria. Transnistria is a province held by pro-Russian rebels and it is home to 1,500 Russian troops as well as an armaments store.
The meeting followed after reports on the blowing up of two antennas carrying Russian radio broadcasts.
EU highlights reform agenda implementation
On October 19, 2021, the EU emphasized the importance of continuing reform agenda execution by presenting a report on the Association Implementation of the EU-Republic of Moldova Association Agreement.
The EU released the report in advance with regard to the sixth EU-Moldova Association Council. It stated that Moldova backslid in rule of law standards and reforms in the second half of 2020.
As a result, on 11 July 2021, the early parliamentary elections provided a strong and clear mandate to pro-reform forces to pursue an ambitious agenda on anti-corruption. Also, an improved justice system, and poverty alleviation in accordance with Moldova’s commitments under the Association Agreement.
High Representative of the EU, Josep Borrell welcomed the renewed commitment by Moldova to reforms in important areas of the EU-Moldova relationship and active participation in the Eastern Partnership.
The elections that took place during the reporting period altered the political landscape. That is, for the first time in the history of Moldova, a pro-reform party won the parliamentary majority.
For this reason, Borrell stated that it opened a positive view for enhancing EU-Moldova relations further. Also, they are working together on the reforms that they awaited for a long time. Moreover, regaining public trust within the public and judiciary and administration system, and improving the country’s business and investment climate.
Similarly, Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement, Olivér Várhelyi also mentioned that the EU continues to support the people of Moldova. Especially, their commitment to supporting pro-reform Moldova in development and economic recovery.
