Moldova Sets Key Foreign Policy Priorities for 2024
President Maia Sandu outlined Moldova's foreign policy goals for 2024 during a videoconference with Moldovan ambassadors, highlighting efforts to promote citizens' interests and bolster economic development, according to the presidential press service, CE Report quotes MOLDPRES
The top priority is Moldova’s EU accession, reaffirmed by citizens in a constitutional referendum. President Sandu emphasized the importance of achieving tangible results, including abolishing quotas on agricultural exports to the EU, joining the Single Euro Payments Area, and reducing roaming charges.
Other key objectives include accelerating the disbursement of €1.8 billion in EU investment funds under the Moldova Growth Plan, which aims to develop infrastructure, support small and medium-sized enterprises, and create jobs. The President also called for enhancing economic diplomacy to attract investments in sectors such as green energy, IT, and modern agriculture, while negotiating new free trade agreements to expand market access for Moldovan products.
Strengthening ties with the diaspora is another focus, with efforts to finalize agreements on driving license recognition and social protection with countries like Romania, Italy, and Canada. Additionally, Moldova plans to expand its consular network with new offices in Astana, Chicago, and Sacramento.
In security, Moldova aims to enhance resilience against hybrid threats and energy challenges through stronger cooperation with international partners. The country also seeks to contribute to regional stability by participating in peacekeeping missions and supporting other nations in emergencies.
President Sandu praised foreign policy achievements such as opening new air routes, increasing agricultural exports to the EU, and signing agreements on social security and driving license recognition with several countries. She also stressed the importance of ensuring smooth elections in fall 2024 to enable Moldovans abroad to participate, reinforcing democracy and Moldova’s European aspirations.
