Romanian president reiterates Romania's support for EU integration of Moldova

Chisinau, 24 February /MOLDPRES/ - Romanian President Klaus Iohannis has given assurances that his country would do its utmost to back Moldova on its European and democratic path. Iohannis made a statement to this effect at a today's news conference held jointly with President Nicolae Timofti in Chisinau.

Klaus Iohannis said that "Romania stays committed to develop the political dialogue and cooperation with Moldova," and urged the Chisinau authorities to continue the reforms. According to the official, Romania and the European partners have great expectations and hopes from Moldova, in agreement with the pro-European vote expressed in November 2014.

"I will have a meeting with Prime Minister Chiril Gaburici, within which I will convey the same messages of supporting the Chisinau authorities to concretely strengthen the pro-European integration and deepen the reforms. The responsibility of ensuring this direction lies with all forces which gave their votes for the government's investiture," Iohannis said. The Romanian president expressed concern about "the implications the developments from Ukraine may have in terms of stability in Moldova."     

President Nicolae Timofti said the visit of his Romanian counterpart consolidated the special relation between the two states and ensured continuity of the joint projects. Timofti stressed that the discussions with Iohannis had been focused on the bilateral ties, Moldova's European integration and regional situation. "I want more Romanian investments to come to Moldova. We agreed on fostering the cultural and education exchanges," Timofti specified. The president said Moldova stayed firmly committed on the European integration path. "In particular, this means implementing reforms provided for in the Association Agreement, with emphasis on justice, fighting corruption and economic development," Timofti said.

Klaus Iohannis came to Moldova on a two-day visit. The Romanian president has scheduled meetings with Prime Minister, Parliament Speaker Andrian Candu and the leaders of the Liberal Democratic Party, Democratic Party and Liberal Party.