France's Secretary of State for European Affairs, Amelie de Montchalin, encourages the Moldovan authorities to implement the intentions to fight corruption, to strengthen the rule of law and the independence of justice, so that it brings concrete changes for the country. Statements in this regard were made during a joint press conference with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration, Nicu Popescu, IPN reports.
The French official reaffirmed France's commitment to supporting reforms in the Republic of Moldova, so that the Government could offer hope and opportunities to all its citizens. European values are not just a concept, we are talking about a tool that allows every citizen to live under the a rule of law. "That means we have to fight corruption and make sure the judiciary is completely independent," said Amelie de Montchalin.
During the discussions in Chisinau the Transnistrian conflict issue was also addressed. "The key words that would describe these discussions are that our goal is to have a lasting and solid political settlement of a conflict that has been lingering," said Amelie de Montchalin.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration, Nicu Popescu, underlined, in his turn, that the visit of the French official reconfirmed France's support for Moldova and the political dialogue with the European Union. "Today we have developed this dialogue so that Moldova can be reconnected to the European space after several years of problems," said the minister.
Nicu Popescu argues that the Transnistrian settlement should advance with the support of European partners. In other news, the minister emphasized the importance of the Francophone dimension for Moldova, in particular the promotion of French language and French culture in Moldova.
The French official also had a meeting with President Igor Dodon. The head of state noted that during the discussions they tackled the most important issues of the bilateral agenda, mentioning their strategic character. "I have noticed the enhancement of the dialogue between Moldova and France in several areas of common interest", mentions the president, quoted in a press release.
During the meeting with Amelie de Montchalin, Prime Minister Maia Sandu thanked the French side for the support provided to the Government in Chisinau in strengthening democracy in the Republic of Moldova. The prime minister pointed out that the implementation of the Moldova-EU Association Agreement remained a priority for the Government's reform agenda.
Also today, the Government of the Republic of Moldova and the Government of the French Republic have signed a Letter of Intent regarding the financing of the project of rehabilitation and modernization of the railway line Chisinau – Ungheni.
