The president of Romania, Klaus Iohannis, paid the first official visit to Moldova on Tuesday, December 29. It is the first visit of a head of state during Maia Sandu’s term. Sandu thanked for the support provided over almost three decades, as well as in the pandemic year 2020. She reiterated that Romania is the main economic partner of Moldova and in order to strengthen the economic relations between countries, Sandu expressed his hope to organize a common economic forum.

“Today, Moldova and Romania restart their natural and fraternal relationships. From today, Moldova begins its way out from international isolation”, said Maia Sandu.

The President of Romania underlined the importance of the victory Maia Sandu obtained in the presidential elections: “It is a victory of historical importance.”

“I am glad that this visit is made after citizens massively voted for reforms. It is a vote in the direction in which the citizens want Moldova to go”, Iohannis added.

He stated that Moldova can only develop based on European principles: the rule of law, justice, democracy, and strong institutions.

“Romania will remain the sincere friend of Moldova’s citizens. We are ready to provide all the assistance needed to manage the multiple crises that Moldova is facing. I am announcing a new support package for Moldova”, Iohannis said.

The Romanian president announced that Bucharest will soon send to Chișinău about 200,000 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine and a team of Romanian experts who will help prepare the vaccination strategy. At the same time, Romania will provide medicines, medical and protective equipment for COVID-19 patients. Iohannis announced that Romania will also provide about 6,000 tons of diesel, in order to support Moldovan farmers facing agricultural drought.