Benelux Foreign Ministers: No One in Tiraspol or Moscow Can Stand in Moldova’s Way on Its Path to the EU

On Monday, 25 August, a joint press conference was held in Chisinau by Moldovan Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mihai Popsoi and his colleagues from the Benelux countries. Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot stated that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Moldova within its internationally recognized borders remain fundamental for the European Union and are not subject to negotiation, according to Radio Moldova. According to Prevot, the process of joining the EU and resolving the Transnistrian conflict are two different things, and “Tiraspol and Moscow should not be allowed to hold Moldova hostage on its path to European integration”. He emphasized that the country had managed to rid itself of its energy dependence on Russia, which was a “historic step” strengthening its security and stability. The minister noted that for decades Gazprom had been used as a tool of pressure, but today Moldova is connecting to the European energy grid and demonstrating the practical benefits of sovereignty to its citizens. According to him, this reinforces the EU’s confidence that “Moldova’s place is in Europe”. The foreign ministers of the Benelux countries confirmed their readiness to continue supporting the Republic of Moldova in implementing reforms, ensuring energy independence and strengthening democratic institutions.