President Maia Sandu reaffirmed the Republic of Moldova’s strong commitment to European integration during a joint press conference with Edgars Rinkēvičs, held in Riga. She thanked Latvia for its consistent support, describing it as a close partner and a successful example for Moldova’s European path.
“Latvia is a country that has gone through the path we are now following and has been generous in helping us get there,” Sandu said.
She highlighted bilateral cooperation in several areas, including education, digitalization, and defense. Moldovan professionals study European law in Riga, while Latvian companies contribute to the development of Moldova’s digital infrastructure. A direct flight also connects the two capitals.
Referring to the EU accession process, Sandu stressed that Moldova is “working hard” by implementing reforms in justice, fighting corruption, and strengthening institutions. According to her, the European Commission considers Moldova one of the best-performing candidate countries.
At the same time, she pointed to major challenges facing the country, including the war at its border and attempts to destabilize democracy. “Our citizens have voted three times in two years, and each time they chose Europe,” she noted.
Sandu emphasized that Moldova’s EU accession would contribute to the security of the entire region. “A stable and European Moldova cannot be used as a pressure point against the continent,” she said, also mentioning the country’s strategic role, with a 1,200-kilometer border with Ukraine.
In her speech, the president advocated for EU enlargement, calling it “an investment in security,” and expressed confidence in Latvia’s support at the European level.
Regarding the war in Ukraine, Sandu stated that supporting Kyiv is “a matter of survival” for Moldova. She thanked Latvia for its assistance to Ukraine and highlighted Moldova’s own contributions, including hosting refugees, providing humanitarian aid, and participating in international efforts.
“A Moldova in the EU is not a burden, but an added capacity,” the president concluded, reiterating that the country not only seeks support but also actively contributes to regional security.