Kyiv, 28 June 2022 (TDI): The President of Moldova, Maia Sandu visited Ukraine and met Ukraine’s President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The President of Moldova also visited the towns of Borodyanka, Bucha, and Irpin which have been affected by destruction and violence resulting from the ongoing war in Ukraine.
I’m in #Ukraine today. Visited the towns of #Borodyanka, #Bucha & #Irpin. Was left speechless by the level of violence & destruction we saw. It’s an unimaginable tragedy &we wholeheartedly wish the brave selfless 🇺🇦people peace, freedom & prosperity, & life of their own choosing. pic.twitter.com/ylPrT5c5Sg
— Maia Sandu (@sandumaiamd) June 27, 2022
Discussions and remarks by both Presidents
Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed President Sandu and noted the significance of Sandu’s visit following the European Union’s historic decision that granted Ukraine and Moldova the status of EU candidacy.
“I am confident that thanks to the success of European integration, our countries will become even closer. We will definitely share our experience on the way to full membership in the European Union,” Zelenskyy emphasized during a meeting with media representatives after talks with Sandu in Kyiv.
As stated by Zelenskyy, the two countries have threats based on Russian aggression and Russian policy. For that reason, the responses of Moldova and Ukraine to such threats should be common.
“We must do everything possible together so that Russian aggression cannot threaten anyone in Europe anymore – neither Ukraine, nor Moldova, nor any other country,” he said.
Strengthening cooperation
Most importantly, Zelenskyy highlighted that Ukraine and Moldova have to strengthen cooperation.
That is, economy, energy, politics, and cross-border cooperation are within the humanitarian sphere. Coupled with cooperation in the security sphere as well, which is currently a priority.
During the negotiations, both parties particularly discussed resistance to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the Transnistrian issue settlement.
Both Presidents further discussed the issue regarding Ukrainian transit through the territory of the Republic of Moldova. As well as energy cooperation, which is crucial for the whole of Europe in achieving independence from Russian energy resources.
They also agreed on creating new transit routes and expanding the export transit potential, especially by facilitating the border crossing between the two countries.
“I confirmed to Mrs. President that Ukraine is ready to help with the reconstruction of the Moldovan railway. We also agreed to start the reconstruction of the Berezyne-Basarabeasca railway section to enhance the transport potential of both countries,” the Ukrainian President said.
Zelenskyy asserted that their nations can only overcome threats created by the Russian Federation in unity.
Remarks by President of Moldova
On the other hand, the President of Moldova pointed out that Moldova appreciated the feat of the Ukrainian people in their fight for freedom and the future.
“Fighting for their freedom, Ukrainians are also fighting for their neighbors in Europe. We in Moldova understand and deeply appreciate this,” President Sandu stated.
She mentioned the Moldovan government’s support for Ukraine through humanitarian assistance to Vinnytsia, Odesa, Chernivtsi, and the Mykolaiv region.
The President of Moldova assured Ukraine that Moldova is ready to offer support in the post-war reconstruction of the country. Thus, Moldova will also assist Ukraine in the transit of goods as exports have been suspended resulting from the blockade of Ukrainian ports by Russia.
In accordance, Zelenskyy and Sandu agreed on cooperating in the implementation of reforms meant to bring their countries’ membership in the EU closer.
