- France reaffirms support for Moldova's independence and sovereignty.
- Moldova faces threats from the conflict in Ukraine and the Transnistria region.
- Macron and Sandu sign a defense deal to protect Moldova's neutrality.
- France backs Moldova's EU membership bid, with a focus on justice reforms.
France reaffirmed its “unwavering support” for the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Moldova during Moldovan President Maia Sandu’s visit to Paris. French President Emmanuel Macron issued a joint statement alongside Sandu, highlighting the importance of Moldova’s borders being recognized within international law. The visit underscored the strong ties between the two nations amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region.
The statement emphasized the challenges Moldova faces due to the conflict in neighboring Ukraine, with particular focus on the pro-Russian breakaway region of Transnistria. Officials in Transnistria recently appealed to Moscow for “protection,” raising concerns that the region could become a new flashpoint in the conflict. Both leaders expressed fears over Moldova’s vulnerability to “intensifying hybrid attacks,” which could further destabilize the country.
Macron and Sandu signed a Chisinau-Paris defense deal during the visit, aimed at strengthening Moldova’s ability to safeguard its neutrality and defend its territory. They stressed the need for Moldova to enhance its defense capabilities to ensure the security of its population and contribute to regional and international stability. The new defense agreement marks a deepening of cooperation between the two countries as Moldova faces growing external threats.
The economic roadmap, also signed during the meeting, sets out a framework for stronger economic cooperation between France and Moldova. This partnership is expected to bolster Moldova’s economic resilience, a crucial element in the face of the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and hybrid attacks targeting the country. Both leaders emphasized that economic stability is vital for Moldova’s security and future.
The discussions between Macron and Sandu also touched on Moldova’s aspirations to join the European Union. France reiterated its full backing for Moldova’s EU membership ambitions, with Macron pledging continued support for the country’s reform efforts. The Moldovan government is set to hold a referendum later this year as part of its bid to join the EU, and both leaders noted the importance of the process for Moldova’s future.
Justice reform and the battle against corruption were highlighted as pivotal to Moldova’s EU membership bid. Macron and Sandu acknowledged that significant progress is needed in these areas to align Moldova with EU standards. They agreed that the success of Moldova’s efforts in reforming its judicial system would be critical to achieving EU membership in the coming years.
As Moldova continues to navigate a complex geopolitical landscape, France’s support is seen as crucial for the country’s stability and security. Macron’s reaffirmation of French backing, both economically and militarily, signals a deepened commitment to helping Moldova secure its future amidst the rising tensions in Eastern Europe.
