Moldova’s EU integration is a strategic asset for continental security, says Sandu in Riga
Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs has called for the commencement of Republic of Moldova’s European Union accession negotiations "without delay." Following a high-level meeting in Riga on April 1, 2026, Rinkēvičs reaffirmed Latvia’s full support for Moldova’s integration into the European bloc.
President Maia Sandu, currently on an official visit to the Latvian capital, emphasized that a European Moldova would significantly enhance the security of the entire Union. "Europe will be safer with Moldova as part of the community," Sandu stated during a joint press conference.
Latvia is providing targeted support for Moldova’s European path through inter-ministerial cooperation. This includes assistance in modernizing the agricultural sector, strengthening intellectual property frameworks, and enhancing border security through collaboration with the Latvian Border Guard.
President Rinkēvičs highlighted the regional security context, noting that Moldova, as a neighbor to Ukraine, is directly impacted by Russian aggression. He specifically cited energy vulnerabilities and the physical dangers of missile and drone debris landing on Moldovan soil.
President Sandu remarked that Moldova’s journey toward EU membership is more complex than Latvia’s experience two decades ago. She pointed to the ongoing war on the border and intensive hybrid campaigns aimed at destabilizing the nation's democracy.
Despite these challenges, Sandu positioned Moldova as a contributor to European stability rather than a mere recipient of aid. She emphasized the country's unique expertise in combating hybrid threats and its active participation in international peacekeeping and emergency response.
"Moldova is not a liability; we are an additional capability," Sandu noted. She highlighted that Moldovan firefighters and military personnel are already contributing to European missions, sharing hard-won lessons from the frontlines of hybrid warfare.
The official visit to Riga continues with scheduled meetings between President Sandu and Prime Minister Evika Siliņa, as well as the leadership of the Latvian Parliament. The visit will conclude with a keynote address by Sandu to the Latvian Legislative Assembly.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
