“France is a reliable ally and true friend of the Republic of Moldova”, declared Nicu Popescu, Deputy Prime Minister/Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration, during a visit to Paris.

In Paris, Popescu thanked the French President Emmanuel Macron, and the director of the International Monetary Fund, Kristalina Georgieva, for their “unconditional support in helping Moldova overcome its crises” and for their “significant contribution to the modernization and progress of the country”.

Nicu Popescu also had meetings with Catherine Colonna, the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France, and Laurence Boone, the Secretary of State for European Affairs. The officials discussed Moldova’s progress that led to the European Commission recommend the start of accession negotiations with our country.

“We thanked them for their continued support on our way to joining the European Union and addressed topics on the bilateral agenda, including the mutual recognition of driving licenses and the signing of a social protection agreement. I also emphasized the importance of the rapid ratification of the Moldovan-French agreement to avoid double taxation”, noted the foreign minister.

Nicu Popescu also had discussions with the Minister of Defense, Sebastian Lecornu, and his advisors. He expressed appreciation for France’s support in the process of reforming the Moldovan army and in managing security threats.