The Republic of Moldova, on the European path

The President of the Republic of Moldova, Maia Sandu, spoke about the priorities of the foreign policy in 2026.

Mihai Pelin, 23.01.2026, 13:50

Maintaining peace and freedom are fundamental priorities for the security and development of the Republic of Moldova, said President Maia Sadu. In a press conference, in which she presented the priorities of the presidential institution for 2026, the head of state reiterated that the process of accession to the European Union remains a major priority and represents “the most realistic development strategy” for the former Soviet republic, emphasizing that the opportunity window for advancing on this path must be quickly seized. In the field of foreign policy, Maia Sandu stated that the Republic of Moldova would continue to anchor itself in solid partnerships, with the EU and Romania as strategic pillars, and will maintain support for Ukraine.

Maia Sandu underlined that foreign policy and security remain key priorities in an international context marked by uncertainty, weakening cooperation between states and the increasingly frequent use of hybrid instruments. Russia remains, according to the Moldovan president, the main source of destabilization in the region, and war continues to be a major security risk. Under these conditions, it is essential for her country to preserve peace and stand firm in the free and democratic world, Maia Sandu said. She added that when international law is questioned, states need strong partners. Thus, accession to the European Union remains the most important strategic project, described as essential for survival and development.

Maia Sandu: “The foreign policy of the Republic of Moldova will be oriented towards firmly anchoring our country in solid, credible, pragmatic partnerships. The most important partnership for us is the European Union. Also, the strategic relationship with Romania constitutes a central pillar of security, stability and development, as well as for our European path.”

The President spoke about a ‘limited window’ for European integration and the need for maximum mobilization, including to maintain the support of all 27 member states. In the field of security and resilience, the emphasis will be on prevention, rapid reaction and airspace protection. In 2026, the Republic of Moldova will benefit from a new radar provided by the European Union as non-refundable support to counter aerial threats, including drones. On the other hand, the fight against corruption and the continuation of the justice reform remain on the presidential agenda, along with strengthening the relationship with the diaspora.

Maia Sandu mentioned that the presidential institution would support efforts to facilitate the return of Moldovans home, emphasizing that the best solution to stop migration is improvement, including in the justice and business environment. We recall that the Republic of Moldova received the status of candidate country in 2022. Accession negotiations were officially opened in 2024. The EU and the Republic of Moldova also cooperate in the context of the Eastern Partnership. (LS)