Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration, Iurie Leanca, had a meeting with the European Commissioner for External Relations and European Neighbourhood Policy, Benita Ferrero-Waldner, during the official visit of the Commissioner to the Republic of Moldova.

Before her departure for Chisinau Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner underlined: “I am delighted that the new government has made closer relations with the EU central to its programme. I hope that all parties in Moldova will work now to put an end to political instability so that the country can focus on tackling its important challenges. The EU can help the Republic of Moldova build for its future, and we are ready to step up our cooperation to unleash the full potential of our relationship. Another chapter in our relations will open in January with the negotiations on a New Agreement that will replace and go further than our current Partnership and Cooperation Agreement. I am certain that the agreement will bring tangible benefits to Moldovan and EU citizens".

Commenting on the Eastern Partnership, Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner stated: " It is good to see the Republic Moldova back playing an active part in the Eastern Partnership and I am delighted that the new authorities intend using all the many opportunities that this new initiative offers. In our bilateral relationship and in the multilateral activities of the Eastern Partnership the Republic of Moldova has much to gain, that will help the country move closer to the EU – and a great deal to contribute too".