Lithuania supports the Republic of Moldova's reforms and European integration
Lithuania continues to be a reliable partner for the Republic of Moldova in its journey toward European integration. The country is committed to providing its expertise and technical assistance to support the implementation of reforms and the diversification of the energy sector. Lithuanian Prime Minister Gintautas Paluckas made this statement during an official visit to Chisinau, where he held a press conference alongside his Moldovan counterpart, Dorin Recean. Paluckas emphasized that the Moldovan authorities will remain a priority on the Lithuanian government's agenda.
“We will provide expert support for the Republic of Moldova's integration path and are ready to further expand our expertise and technical assistance. Today, we discussed new areas for practical cooperation, including the energy sector, strategic communication, cyber resilience, and support for civil society. Lithuania is prepared to share its experience in countering hybrid threats and to provide material support,” emphasized Paluckas.
The Lithuanian Prime Minister reiterated his belief that the future of the Republic of Moldova lies within the European Union and expressed hope that the accession negotiations will advance significantly in the near future.
“I am confident that all these reforms require concerted efforts to be implemented, including amendments to certain regulations and laws. It’s essential to do your homework, but the effort will be worthwhile in the end. We are strong supporters; we are friends,” he added.
In response, Prime Minister Dorin Recean highlighted the dynamic development of economic relations between the two countries, noting that bilateral trade increased by over 25% in the past year, reaching nearly $47 million. Recean invited Lithuanian investors to explore business opportunities in Moldova, particularly in the energy, IT, light industry, and tourism sectors. He also proposed organizing a Moldovan-Lithuanian economic forum in Chisinau.
“We want to expand these collaborations and promote common European values,” stated the Prime Minister.
Lithuania currently ranks 35th among the Republic of Moldova's global trading partners, accounting for 0.28% of the total trade volume.
Beyond the economic aspect, Lithuania actively supports the development of the Republic of Moldova. The Lithuanian government provides development assistance, designating Moldova as one of the seven priority countries in its foreign policy. Through the Democracy Promotion and Development Cooperation Programme, which is managed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania, various sector-specific projects are implemented annually in Moldova, and details about these initiatives can be found on the platform www.LTaid.lt.
The diaspora communities also play a significant role in enhancing the human and cultural dimensions of the relationship. In Lithuania, the Moldovan community is represented by the "Dacia" society, which was founded in 1989. Meanwhile, three ethnocultural organizations in the Republic of Moldova promote Lithuanian traditions: the Lithuanian Society (established in 1990), the Lithuanian Community (established in 1997), and the Lithuanian Youth Union (also established in 1997). These organizations contribute to strengthening the ties between the two countries through projects focused on education, culture, and intercultural dialogue.
