International relations experts consider that the visit to Chisinau of the presidents of Romania, Ukraine and Poland is a clear sign of overcoming international isolation and a sign for the ushering of a new era of external cooperation. According to them, a “2+2 format” of cooperation and mutual support among two EU member states and two states that have signed Association Agreements with the European Union is taking shape.
Iulian Chifu, chair of the Bucharest-based Conflict Prevention Center, said that the presence of the three heads of state in Chisinau on Independence Day has more than a symbolic significance. It is also a message that the European Union stands by Moldova and will support Moldovan citizens with the help of the two EU member states, Romania and Poland.
"The fact that there is an unprecedented openness towards Moldova is already known. The president of Romania is in Chisinau for the second time in less than a year. At the same time, Romania and Poland are strategic partners. These countries are the most important states on the Eastern flank. The presence of the Polish president is also extremely important. A 2+2 format is taking shape, between two EU member states and two EU partner states, a format of support for the closest partners on the Eastern flank", said Iulian Chifu during the TVR Moldova show "Punctul pe Azi".
Additionally, the director of the European Institute of Political Studies said that Moldova's foreign policy is undergoing an unprecedented reinvigoration. "Our country is becoming a predictable partner in terms of foreign policy, firmly oriented towards Euro-integration," said Viorel Cibotaru.
"The visit of the three presidents marks a new era of foreign cooperation. It is no longer simply a question of good neighborliness, but of creating a new security, social and economic environment in which Moldova can get a new chance for development. It is a signal from the European community that Moldova is supported from the outside and this opportunity must be used to its full potential. We have to benefit from the potential of this openness of the European community", said Cibotaru.
On August 27, the 30th anniversary of the proclamation of Moldova's independence, the President of Romania, Klaus Iohannis, the President of Poland, Andrzej Duda, and the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, will be in Chisinau. The three heads of state will participate, alongside President Maia Sandu, in the festivities organized in the Grand National Assembly Square. Bilateral meetings and a multilateral meeting of the four heads of state will follow.
