"We agreed to launch the EU Growth Plan for Moldova as soon as possible, but also to speed up the reforms in the justice sector so as to better protect our democracy and the country,” said President Maia Sandu, who on Thursday took part in the fifth edition of the European Political Community Summit held in Budapest, Hungary. The head of state had several meetings with European leaders, heads of state and government, with whom she discussed cooperation that brings concrete benefits to Moldovan citizens and joint efforts to protect democracy in Moldova, IPN reports.
Maia Sandu held discussions on the European integration process and Moldova's economic situation with the leaders of the European Union – President of the European Council Charles Michel, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, and President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola.
The head of state also hosted a meeting with European leaders, which focused on strengthening institutions in the face of the challenges faced by Moldova. Following the meeting, a joint statement was issued by the President of France Emmanuel Macron, the President of Romania Klaus Iohannis, the Prime Minister of Poland Donald Tusk, the Prime Minister of Italy Giorgia Meloni, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Keir Starmer, as well as the EU leadership. The document reiterates the support for Moldova and the European path reaffirmed at the constitutional referendum of October 20. The officials also condemned the documented attempts to influence election results through information manipulation, corruption and vote-buying schemes.
"Through work, perseverance and with the help of friends from all corners of Europe, we will succeed in developing the Republic of Moldova and further ensuring the country's security," said the head of state.
President Sandu also discussed regional security with her Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskyy. According to her, Moldova stands by Ukraine in the fight for freedom, advancing together towards the common future in the EU.
The European Political Community is a forum that brings together countries of the European Union and those outside the bloc to discuss the challenges facing the continent. The first Community meeting took place in Prague in October 2022 and the second was hosted by the Republic of Moldova in June 2023.
