The Republic of Moldova and the Federal Republic of Germany have a robust bilateral agenda in regional and European context and the goal is to strengthen and maximally develop the relationship between the two states, President Maia Sandu stated in a news conference held jointly with the President of Germany Frank-Walter Steinmeier in Berlin, IPN reports.

“Germany is one of the main trading partners of our country in Europa. The German investors create thousands of jobs in industry and agriculture. We are prepared for new German investments. Moldova has qualified personnel and can host production lines for medical devices and products intended for the European market – a good solution for producers that will this way reduce production costs and transport,” said President Sandu.

She stated that she and her German counterpart discussed the political and security situation in the region, noting that Moldova is concerned about the recent tensions and that stability in the European neighborhood is an essential precondition for Moldova’s development and also for the EU, which wants peace on its borders and a constructive dialogue with the EaP countries and Russia.

The two officials also discussed the political developments in Moldova and the upcoming snap parliamentary elections. President Sandu noted that negotiations on an agreement on driver’s licenses are held. She approved of the German authorities’ readiness to annul the obligation to take a theory exam on the conversion of the Moldovan license into a German license and also their willingness to sign an agreement on the employment of Moldovans for seasonal agricultural works in Germany.

Maia Sandu also said that the Moldovan presidential team is preparing a post-pandemic economic recovery plan for whose implementation they will seek financial support from the European institutions, including Germany.

For his part, President Frank-Walter Steinmeier said that Maia Sandu’s visit at the start of her tenure is a signal of the close relationship between Germany and the Republic of Moldova. He assured that his country will support the reform agenda of the presidential administration.

“The courageous reform course you chose and you represent underscores that the relations between Germany and the Republic of Moldova can become even closer the coming years. We plead, at bilateral level and at European level, for supporting your country. We want friendship and partnerships between the Republic of Moldova and the European Union. During the past few weeks, I saw that many political players in your country showed lack of respect for the Constitution and for the constitutional authorities of the country. I hope the result of the parliamentary elections will generate clarity and will smooth the way in this regard. We have a lot to do,” stated Frank-Walter Steinmeier.

President Maia Sandu is paying an official visit to Berlin during May 19-20.