Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration Iurie Leanca on 11 November met French Secretary of state for Foreign Affairs Pierre Lellouche, on a working visit to Moldova.

The basic subjects discussed by the two officials were the deepening of the Moldovan-French relations and consolidation of cooperation in European integration issues. Iurie Leanca stressed that the visit by the French official takes place in a defining moment for Moldova, when the new government is set to achieve many objectives, with the main goal to bring Moldova back on the path of normality. The minister referred to the priorities of the government's acting programme. At the same time, he stressed the difficulties of their implementation, triggered by the legacy of a distorted and corrupt political and economic system. In particular, the sides discussed the steps undertaken in order to start reforms which would ensure the separation of state powers.

After unveiling the officials' vision on prospects for accession to the European Union, the minister said that, regretfully, "the EU mowed towards Moldova, and not Moldova moved towards the EU" over the previous years. Leanca said that the government managed to take important steps in the external relations field, among which the launch of discussions with the EU on a new agreement, improvement of dialogue with the International Monetary Fund and of relations with the two neighbours, Romania and Ukraine. The minister said that Moldova is aware of the difficulties which it is to face on the European path. Iurie Leanca stressed that the authorities' firm political will and the results achieved in a short period of time instil hope for a more encouraging treatment on behalf of the European Union member states. Moldova relies a lot on the support of France, which has a special weight and authority within the EU. Expectations concerning the European support provided by France are very high in Moldova, the minister said.

Pierre Lellouche said that his visit to Chisinau can be interpreted as a friendly helping hand. France keeps a close eye on the evolutions in Moldova, it understands the difficulties faced by our young democracy, and will provide adequate assistance for reforms. The French diplomat stressed the importance of the fact that Moldova mobilises its abilities to turn into a sure provider of stability in the region.

Mass Media and Public Relations Division, MFAEI