Visiting Chisinau on Wednesday, Chancellor Olaf Scholz declared that Germany stands firmly with Moldova and will support our country to the best of its ability. “I want to send a signal regarding the good ties between our countries and express our desire to support Moldova on its European journey. We have a close relationship based on trust”, said the German official during a press conference held jointly with President Maia Sandu.
Olaf Scholz said Germany knows how Moldova suffers from the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine. “We know that pro-Russian and Russian actors are trying to destabilize your country, especially in the context of the presidential elections and the country’s accession to the EU. My most important message is that Germany is firmly by your side, we will support the Republic of Moldova to the best of our ability”, declared the German Chancellor.
According to him, Moldova has so far managed to cope with all attempts at destabilization from abroad. At the same time, it is important to support Moldova’s accession to the EU. “It is important that talks on negotiations were launched this summer. You have demonstrated significant reform steps and it is important to continue on this European path. The achievements of your country, of your people are enormous. For us in Germany one thing is clear – we support this European path. The enlargement of the European Union is in the interest of the European Union, in the strategic interest of both Germany and Moldova”, said the German Chancellor.
President Maia Sandu declared that the German official’s visit is an opportunity to reaffirm the importance of the Moldovan-German relationship and to strengthen bilateral cooperation. “On the occasion of this visit, I want to thank you, Mr. Chancellor, for the constant and unconditional support that Germany offers to Moldova on our European journey. Now a strong external support depends on each of us here in Moldova, how fast we will advance. It is essential to be involved in the life of the community every day, but it is equally important to actively participate in the key moments that will define the fate of the country and our people”.
The Moldovan president urged all citizens, regardless of political preferences, to participate in the October referendum, as it represents “the most democratic and effective” form of expressing collective will. “Germany, as a founding state of the European Union, has a central role in building and maintaining this project of peace, unity and prosperity, which has transformed Europe. Moldova wants to become part of this European family, and the accession process is essential for our democratic future. Germany has always been a reliable partner for the Republic of Moldova, which we greatly appreciate”, Maia Sandu said.
Earlier, Olaf Scholz visited Moldova in June of last year, when he attended the European Political Community Summit along with other European leaders. Scholz is the first German chancellor to visit Moldova on a bilateral level in 12 years, after Angela Merkel’s visit in 2012.
