Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides on Saturday underlined strong support for Moldova’s European future during the first ever official visit by a Cypriot President to the country, describing EU accession as the natural path for the country and pledging Cyprus’ backing during its EU presidency.
Christodoulides met Moldovan President Maia Sandu at the Presidential Palace in Chișinău, where the two leaders held talks followed by joint statements to the media. The visit coincided with Europe Day and took place while Cyprus holds the Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
Addressing the media, Christodoulides described Sandu as “a true European”, saying she embodies the resilience and strength of the Moldovan people. Marking Europe Day, he said the visit symbolised both the EU’s founding values and Moldova’s commitment to them, adding that the European vision “is alive and thriving here in Moldova”.
He stressed that Cyprus had placed EU enlargement at the centre of its presidency, describing it as an integral part of European strategic autonomy. Reflecting on Cyprus’ own accession in 2004, he said EU membership had transformed the country, improving quality of life, anchoring it firmly within the European family and creating prosperity and opportunity.
“This is the future that awaits Moldova,” Christodoulides said, adding: “This is the future we are working together to make a reality.”
He noted that Moldova had made “remarkable progress” since receiving EU candidate status in June 2022, describing this as tangible proof of its commitment to reform. He said Cyprus had worked closely with Moldova and the European Commission from the start of its presidency and confirmed that technical preparations for the remaining negotiating clusters had been completed.
Christodoulides said the first ministerial meeting on enlargement held for Moldova since the opening of accession talks in 2024 demonstrated the EU’s commitment to the country’s European path. He added that Cyprus’ objective was to formally open the negotiating clusters, starting with Cluster 1 on fundamentals, including rule of law, justice reform and fundamental rights, in June.
Emphasising that enlargement is merit‑based, he said that when candidate countries deliver, the EU must also deliver. Alongside accession negotiations, he said Cyprus was focused on measures with immediate impact for Moldovan citizens, citing the EU Growth Plan and the recent release of an additional €200 million following the completion of key reforms.
Christodoulides said the funds were intended to modernise infrastructure, stimulate economic growth and support job creation, particularly in high‑tech sectors, allowing young people to remain in the country.
He also highlighted growing bilateral ties, announcing the launch of negotiations on a bilateral social security agreement, following discussions held during Sandu’s visit to Nicosia last December. He said the agreement would build on existing air connectivity and facilitate exchanges between citizens and businesses.
Christodoulides thanked Sandu for Moldova’s principled stance on the Cyprus issue, reaffirming support for efforts to reunify the island in line with UN Security Council resolutions and EU law. He also reiterated Cyprus’ support for Moldova’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence.
On her part, Sandu said Christodoulides’ visit came at a crucial moment, noting that Cyprus’ EU presidency was particularly important for enlargement. She said Moldova admired Cyprus’ European path and believed it deserved the same opportunity for stability, prosperity and peace, describing EU accession as the country’s most important national project.
Later the same day, Christodoulides addressed a Europe Day concert in central Chișinău, alongside Sandu, sending what he described as “a clear message” that Moldova’s future lies within the European Union. He said Moldova should be proud of its progress, describing the country as a frontrunner in the enlargement process.
The Cypriot President returned to Cyprus late on Saturday evening.
