Moldovan, European officials approach current issues

Chisinau, 21 Sep. /MOLDPRES/- Deputy Prime Minister Nicu Popescu participated in an event organized by USAID together with EU Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson, USAID Deputy Administrator Isobel Coleman, Ukrainian Minister of Justice Denys Maliuska and Executive Director of the Institute for European Policies and Reforms Iulian Groza, the MAEIE press service has reported.

The event focused on the fight against corruption and the opportunity to speed up the European integration of Ukraine and Moldova.

Popescu pointed out the significant progress Moldova has made in implementing the nine recommendations of the European Commission, including fighting corruption and strengthening the rule of law. He also emphasized the importance of the support of the international community regarding our firm goal of joining the European Union.

On the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, the official had a meeting with OSCE Secretary General Helga Maria Schmid.

The officials approached important issues on regional security, given the Russian Federation's war of aggression against Ukraine. They considered the current situation of the Transnistrian settlement process and the progress during our accession to the EU.

"I also evaluated the collaboration of the Republic of Moldova with the OSCE and its institutions, emphasizing the importance of continuing the OSCE mission in our country," said Popescu.

Popescu together with President Maia Sandu had a meeting with Samantha Power, USAID Administrator.

The discussion focused on Moldova's progress, judicial reform and steps to revive the country's economy. We are grateful for the strong and long-standing partnership with USAID.

Popescu had a constructive discussion with Elina Valtonen, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Finland.

The Moldovan official expressed gratitude for Finland's firm commitment in supporting the European path of the Republic of Moldova and emphasized the importance of continuous support in this direction. The diplomats also addressed topics on collaboration in the regional security, renewable energy and sustainable development. Popescu reconfirmed our determination to boost the dialogue between our countries and invited Valtonen to visit Chisinau in the near future.

Popescu chaired the informal meeting of the ministers of foreign affairs of the member states of the Central European Initiative (ICE), in the context in which the Republic of Moldova holds the presidency of the ICE.

Together with the ministers of the ICE, we also discussed the importance of the projects under implementation and approval, including those involving the support for Ukraine", he said.

In the discussion with journalist Julia Macfarlane, the Moldovan official referred to the European path of the Republic of Moldova, the measures taken by the authorities to combat Russia's hybrid attacks, and the fantastic relations we have with the United States of America.

Photo: MAEIE