Lithuania backs Moldova’s EU integration bid

During her official visit to Vilnius, the President of Moldova, Maia Sandu, held meetings with the President of Lithuania, Gitanas Nausėda, the Speaker of Parliament Juozas Olekas, and Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė.

The discussions focused on Lithuania’s support for Moldova’s European integration and the progress achieved by the country, CE Report quotes MOLDPRES.

“In Brussels, within the European Council, and in every room where our accession is discussed, Lithuania is a reliable friend,” the Moldovan president emphasized.

For his outstanding contribution to strengthening Moldova–Lithuania relations and for his full support of Moldova’s European path, President Sandu announced that Lithuania’s president, Gitanas Nausėda, will be awarded the Order of the Republic.

The interlocutors also discussed issues related to strengthening security and resilience, including cooperation in areas such as hybrid threats, cybersecurity, and combating information manipulation.

“In such a tense neighborhood as ours, this type of partnership is essential,” Sandu said.

The parties also examined opportunities to expand economic cooperation, including encouraging Lithuanian investments in Moldova. The Lithuanian group Invalda INVL is among the investors in the largest bank in Moldova.

“We want more Lithuanian companies to discover Moldova. Investment opportunities are real, the business environment is improving, and the EU accession process is creating new conditions for growth,” the president added.

Later in the day, Sandu will also meet with experts in international relations and European affairs.

The official visit will continue tomorrow, March 11, when President Maia Sandu will deliver a speech in the plenary session of the Lithuanian Parliament in Vilnius during a solemn session marking the 36th anniversary of the restoration of Lithuania’s Declaration of Independence.