On the occasion of Moldova’s 34th independence anniversary, Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz, France’s President Emmanuel Macron, and Poland’s Prime Minister visited the country to honor the milestone. During their visit, Merz and Macron reaffirmed their backing for Moldova’s EU membership bid, emphasizing the country’s potential to become a member of the European Union.
Moldova, which gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, has long sought closer ties with the European Union. The country’s aspirations for EU membership have been complicated by its geopolitical position between Ukraine and Russia, as well as internal political challenges. The recent visit by Merz, Macron, and the Polish Prime Minister underscores the growing international interest in Moldova’s democratic development and its potential to join the EU.
Macron’s support for Moldova’s EU bid has been a key part of his strategy to strengthen European unity and counter Russian influence, especially in the wake of the war in Ukraine. Merz, meanwhile, has been advocating for a stronger European defense and economic union. The Polish Prime Minister, who has been vocal about the need for a united Europe to withstand Russian aggression, has also been a strong proponent of Moldova’s EU integration.
The visit comes at a time when Moldova is facing significant political and economic challenges. The country has been in turmoil over the past year, with protests against the government’s pro-Russian policies and a controversial presidential election. However, the support from key European leaders may provide a much-needed boost to Moldova’s democratic institutions and its path toward EU membership.