May 1, 2024, London - Today the 3rd meeting of the Strategic Dialogue Republic of Moldova - United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland took place. The event was hosted by the Minister for Europe, Nusrat Ghani and included the participation of the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Commonwealth and Development, Lord David Cameron and the Minister for the Armed Forces, Leo Docherty.
The Delegation of Moldova was led by State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Carolina Perebinos and involved the participation of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mihai Popșoi, and State Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Valeriu Mija.
The Dialogue was established in the Strategic Partnership, Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the Republic of Moldova and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, signed at the end of 2020.
During the Dialogue, both sides discussed a wide range of topics of bilateral cooperation, which has intensified since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This includes a reinvigorated security and defence partnership, through reinforcement of Moldovan resilience to tackle threats such as cyber security vulnerabilities, as well as increasing law enforcement and criminal justice cooperation, exchanges of information to combat serious and organised crime, and support to defence reform.
It also involves UK support to Moldovan political and economic reform, notably on energy security, anti-corruption, democracy-building, private sector development, and independent media. And it includes a substantial UK humanitarian programme that ensures the basic needs of Ukrainian refugees and vulnerable Moldovans are being met whilst strengthening the national social protection system. Both sides took stock of the increased rhythm of Ministerial engagement since last year’s Dialogue in Chisinau and welcomed the strong partnership and friendship our countries enjoy. The UK reiterated its support for Moldova’s efforts to join the European Union.
Acknowledging that the temporary tariff liberalisation under the UK-Moldova Free Trade Agreement is due to expire on 31 July 2024, both parties are actively discussing its future.
Furthermore, acknowledging the importance of expanding and strengthening the existing solid bilateral legal framework, the sides reaffirmed their will to intensify discussions on the conclusion of an agreement on the conversion of driving licenses and a returns agreement.
As Moldova prepares to hold Presidential elections and a referendum on joining the European Union this autumn, the UK reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to defending Moldova’s democratic choice to pursue a path of freedom, independence, and sovereignty.
Both sides look forward to continuing engagement in 2024 and beyond.
