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Foreign Minister Tsahkna: our priority is Moldova's stability and European integration

Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

27.04.2023

Today 27 April, Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna was in Chișinău for a joint visit with his Nordic and Baltic colleagues (NB8) to express support to Moldova. The foreign ministers had meetings with Moldovan Foreign Minister Nicu Popescu, Prime Minister Dorin Recean, President Maia Sandu and Speaker of the Parliament Igor Grosu.

Today 27 April, Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna was in Chișinău for a joint visit with his Nordic and Baltic colleagues (NB8) to express support to Moldova. The foreign ministers had meetings with Moldovan Foreign Minister Nicu Popescu, Prime Minister Dorin Recean, President Maia Sandu and Speaker of the Parliament Igor Grosu.

The focus of the meetings was on Moldova's integration with the European Union and the reforms that are needed in the process. Minister Tsahkna said Moldova had clearly expressed its ambition of joining the EU and it can count on Estonia's support. "This step is very important for European security; there is no room for grey areas," the minister underlined. NB8 foreign ministers recognised the representatives of Moldova for the progress made so far and said it was important to continue with an active reform agenda. Foreign Minister Tsahkna said that Estonia would like to share its reform experience with colleagues in Moldova.

"Moldova is a neighbour of Ukraine and bears the greatest impact of the consequences of Russia's aggression. Obviously, Russia's aggression affects them immediately here and it is impressive how the Moldovan society has successfully met these challenges, including a large number of refugees," the Estonian foreign minister said.

Discussions also covered a new sanctions regime that would make it possible to sanction individuals and organisations that support the Kremlin and are actively trying to destabilise Moldova. The ministers highlighted the speedy launch of the EU civilian mission in Moldova, which would also concentrate on reinforcing internal security. "Estonia fully supports the establishment of the EU civilian mission in Moldova and we are ready to contribute with our experts," Tsahkna said. This year, Estonia's development cooperation budget for Moldova is €440 000, aimed at supporting activities necessary for joining the European Union.

After the meetings, NB8 foreign ministers signed a joint declaration expressing their commitment to advancing freedom and democracy in Moldova and upholding Moldova's independence and sovereignty.

It is the first joint visit of NB8 states to Moldova. The aim of the visit was to show common Nordic and Baltic political support to the Europe-aligned foreign policy course of Moldova.