On Friday, July 4th, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa met with Moldovan President Maia Sandu for the first-ever EU-Moldova summit. The event aimed to strengthen relations, highlight the strategic importance of Moldova’s future, and provide safeguards against Russian influence, the EU representatives said.
Europhile President Sandu was re-elected last year thanks to the expat vote, while domestic voters favored opponent Alexandr Stoianoglo, who, while supportive of EU integration, also saw developing ties with Russia as beneficial for Moldova.
The summit marked a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties and reaffirming the European Union’s commitment to the country, which currently holds EU candidate status. The high-level meeting took place just months before Moldova’s upcoming parliamentary elections, underscoring the strategic importance of the event.
To support Moldova’s EU integration and reform efforts, the European Union announced a financial package of up to €1,9 billion for the 2025–2027 period under the new Moldova Growth Plan. This represents the largest EU financial commitment to Moldova since the country gained independence and comes after seven previous assistance measures under the European Peace Facility (EPF).
“Nine months ago, we agreed on the growth plan for Moldova, and eight months ago, the people of Moldova have enshrined their European future in Moldova’s constitution,” said President von der Leyen. She added, “Through this summit, the European Union is sending a clear message: Moldova matters.”
