“Moldovans have the right to decide their own future, and this future lies in the European Union. With the support of France and other partners, we will ensure that Moldova will be free, will be peaceful and will be in the European Union”, declared President Maia Sandu after meeting in Paris today with her French counterpart Emmanuel Macron.

Sandu declared that France is among Moldova’s closest supporters, offering assistance during the last two years of turmoil caused by Russia’s actions. “France stands by Moldova as our country moves forward on its journey to the European Union”, said Sandu, also stressing the constant and unwavering support of the French President during the French Presidency of the European Council in the first half of 2022 and at the December summit in Brussels, which approved the start of accession negotiations.

“France’s solidarity is much deeper than that. President Emmanuel Macron initiated the European Political Community, which has become an important platform for EU and non-EU countries to come together and discuss crucial issues facing our continent. He also had a key role in establishing the Moldova Support Platform, together with Germany and Romania, which provided financial and humanitarian aid to our country as we faced multiple crises following the invasion of Ukraine by Russia”, noted the Moldovan president.

Maia Sandu mentioned that the signing of the defense and economic cooperation agreements with France also sends a firm message that Moldova is increasingly stronger, with France by its side. Defense cooperation is intensifying, and the recent acquisition of a high-performance air radar is one example. More than two hundred French companies are active in Moldova, offering mutual benefits to both economies. “As we get closer to the EU, we know that the involvement of companies will increase. Preparing for EU accession already strengthens our economy and strengthens our resistance”, said Maia Sandu.

The Moldovan president is visiting Paris during March 7 and 8.