Moldova's EU dream: Romania's steady hand
In a warm exchange across borders, Romania's Foreign Minister Luminița Odobescu swiftly congratulated Christina Gherasimov on her new role as Moldova's Minister of European Affairs.
This phone call reaffirms Romania's steadfast support for its neighbour's journey towards EU membership.
Am discutat 📞 cu @cgherasimov pentru a o felicita pentru nominalizarea pentru poziția de ministru al afacerilor europene și negociator șef al 🇲🇩. 🇷🇴 continua să fie alături de Republica #Moldova în parcursul său către integrarea în 🇪🇺UE.
— Luminita Odobescu (@Odobes1Luminita) January 24, 2024
"Romania remains firmly committed to standing beside Moldova on its path to EU integration," stated Odobescu, highlighting the enduring partnership between the two countries. Gherasimov echoed this sentiment, expressing her "delight in continuing our fruitful cooperation and advancing the next phases of Moldova's EU accession together."
This conversation underscores the unwavering momentum fueling Moldova's EU aspirations. Following former Foreign Minister Nicu Popescu's emotional resignation, the mantle now falls upon Gherasimov, a seasoned diplomat with close ties to President Maia Sandu. Popescu's legacy includes key achievements towards closer EU ties, including the formation of the Recean and Gavrilița governments.
Mulțumesc @Odobes1Luminita pentru urările călduroase. Mă bucură să continuăm buna noastră colaborare și, într-un efort comun, să parcurgem viitoarele etape ale integrării 🇲🇩 în 🇪🇺. Suntem recunoscători că putem conta pe sprijinul necondiționat al 🇷🇴. https://t.co/VtM3AE9DvU
— Cristina Gherasimov (@cgherasimov) January 24, 2024
Reorganisation within the Moldovan government also sees Mihai Popșoi, the current Parliament Vice President, taking over the Foreign Affairs portfolio. Prime Minister Dorin Recean lauded Popescu's dedication and acknowledged the "exceptional" work of the Foreign Ministry team. Furthermore, Recean announced the establishment of a dedicated Ministry for European Integration, to be spearheaded by Gherasimov herself.
With a proven track record and close proximity to the President's office, Gherasimov appears well-positioned to steer Moldova's EU ambitions forward. The unwavering support from Romania further bolsters this journey, offering both political and strategic advantages in navigating the complexities of accession talks.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
