Germany will support the Republic of Moldova on its path to energy independence at both the national and European levels, as well as in its European integration efforts. Moreover, in the context of this year’s parliamentary elections, it is even more important to support a democracy capable of defending itself. This statement was made by German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock during a press conference in Chisinau, alongside Prime Minister Dorin Recean, IPN reports.
The German minister noted that she had come from Ukraine, where, not far from Moldova, people are defending their country, homeland, and European values - including freedom in Europe - with incredible courage every day.
"Most people want to live in peace and freedom in their own country. This is also true for Moldova, where society fights every day for independence, the right to self-determination, and a free Europe," the official stated.
"It is no coincidence that I came from Ukraine to Moldova, and I will continue on to Brussels. This reflects the fact that, whenever we discuss peace in Europe - peace for Ukraine, a just peace for Ukraine - we are talking about the entire European security order that we want to defend, to ensure that a war of aggression never happens again on our continent," she added.
Moldova is strong and resilient
At three years since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, Annalena Baerbock emphasized that Russia's plan of aggression has failed. As for Moldova, she stated that the country is strong, resilient, and making remarkable progress on its reform path.
"Given the reduced U.S. assistance, our support is more important than ever. And we, as an EU partner, will support you on the path to independence and European integration. Germany, through the Moldova Energy Fund, has contributed €33 million, ensuring that people do not suffer from darkness and despair," the German foreign minister declared.
Germany's assistance also includes efforts to combat disinformation and support traditional security sectors.
"The current and future German government has jointly decided on an additional €37 million in aid for Moldova. Elections in Germany are a key feature of our democracy and will not lead to any changes in the support we provide to Moldova, including within the Partnership Platform," Baerbock added.
Dorin Recean: Moldova-Germany friendship is based on trust and results
Prime Minister Dorin Recean emphasized that the friendship between Moldova and Germany is strong, based on trust, respect, and, most importantly, results. According to him, this partnership was strengthened in 2022, just weeks after Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine, when Germany, France, and Romania launched the Moldova Support Platform in Berlin. Over three years, this initiative has evolved into the Moldova Partnership Platform, holding five editions so far.
The Prime Minister also highlighted that Germany is one of Moldova’s most important partners, being the largest bilateral donor to the Energy Vulnerability Reduction Fund, contributing 25% of the total funding.
Additionally, Germany supports Moldova by modernizing its water supply infrastructure, investing in energy efficiency, promoting dual education, and donating equipment to the Border Police.
"Economically, Germany is Moldova’s fifth-largest trading partner and seventh-largest foreign investor. Over 400 German companies operate in Moldova, providing thousands of jobs," Recean noted.
The visit of the German foreign minister to Moldova took place on April 2-3 and marks her fourth visit during her tenure.
