Moldova and Ukraine must advance together on the path to European integration, as separating the two countries would be in neither of their interests, Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Oleksandr Mishchenko said in an exclusive interview with Moldova 1.
The diplomat stressed that the two countries share common interests and European values, despite facing different threats. While Ukraine is directly fighting Russian aggression, Moldova faces cyberattacks and other forms of hybrid threats.
“This means that Russia represents the main threat to both countries. The way we can overcome this situation is by moving forward together on the path to European integration,” Oleksandr Mishchenko said.
The diplomat also highlighted the support provided by Chisinau through the reception of Ukrainian refugees, economic cooperation and the facilitation of cargo transportation. One example is the use of Moldovan territory for logistics and the export of Ukrainian grain amid risks caused by the war in the Black Sea.
“Moldova responded to our request for assistance and allowed us to use its territory for logistics and the export of Ukrainian grain. This is a concrete example, and we have many others,” the diplomat said.
Mishchenko noted that Ukraine’s experience gained during the war could also benefit Moldova, particularly in preparing for potential threats.
“We are trying to share our military experience, including how such a situation can be managed and overcome. We are doing this because Moldova is our friend,” the diplomat said.
Both Countries Should Advance Together Toward the EU
Regarding European Union accession, the diplomat said it would not be in the interests of either country to pursue separate paths. He expressed confidence that Moldova and Ukraine would be able to move forward together in the negotiation process.
“From my point of view, it would not be in the interests of either of our countries to go separate ways. If we succeed in the negotiation process, we will move forward together,” Oleksandr Mishchenko said.
Asked whether a possible separation of the two countries’ accession paths could affect bilateral relations, the diplomat avoided commenting on hypothetical scenarios. He noted that the authorities in Chisinau and Kyiv had confirmed their commitment to continuing their European path together.
Moldova Could Become a Logistics Hub for Ukraine’s Reconstruction
Another area with potential for cooperation is Ukraine’s reconstruction after the war ends. According to the diplomat, Moldova could play an important role in this process, particularly because of its geographical location and transport infrastructure.
“Moldova can become a logistics hub, as well as a partner in other areas that we are discussing with our ministries,” Mishchenko said.
The diplomat noted that agreements had already been reached with several Moldovan companies and that concrete cooperation projects were under discussion. He also referred to the recent visit of Ukraine’s transport minister to Moldova and talks on cooperation in transport and port infrastructure.
“This means there are opportunities, and we are open to Moldova playing a very active role in these projects,” the diplomat said.
Moldova is expected to receive its roadmap for EU accession on October 28, alongside Ukraine, Montenegro and Albania. The announcement was made on October 6 by European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos, who said the document would outline the next steps in the negotiations, indicative timelines and concrete objectives.
On October 8, European Council President Antonio Costa said, following a phone conversation with Moldovan President Maia Sandu, that Moldova was expected to open two additional negotiation clusters the following week, with the remaining clusters to be opened by the end of the year.
EU accession negotiations cover 33 chapters grouped into six clusters. Moldova has so far opened the “Fundamentals” and “External Relations” clusters.
On October 7, Chisinau received an official invitation to submit its negotiating positions for two additional clusters: “Internal Market” and “Competitiveness and Inclusive Growth”.