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On 4 August 2025, while receiving a visit from the Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration of Moldova, Cristina Gherasimov, in Riga, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Baiba Braže, reaffirmed strong support from Latvia to Moldova’s integration with the European Union (EU) and welcomed current progress with reforms.
Baiba Braže and Cristina Gherasimov discussed the security situation in the region, further steps to strengthen energy independence and resilience, including in the field of renewable energy, the course of reforms in Moldova, and the situation in the country ahead of the Moldovan parliamentary election this coming 28 September. The officials exchanged views on a persistent and powerful Russian hybrid aggression, ranging from information manipulation and financing of covert destabilizing political activities, to judicial corruption, cyberattacks and the incitement of ethnic tensions.
Foreign Minister Baiba Braže: “We agree that the upcoming elections can be decisive for Moldova on its course towards the EU. Every effort must be made during the pre-election period to prevent Russia’s unconventional threat and external interference in democratic processes in Moldova, including by strengthening the security of the electoral infrastructure and strategic communication.
The progress of reform achieved by Moldova in EU enlargement process is noteworthy, and it can set an example for other candidate countries. Latvia will continue assisting Moldova, both bilaterally and at the EU level, and support the opening of all chapters in EU accession negotiations with Moldova as early as this year.”
Cristina Gherasimov thanked the EU for its decisions to impose sanctions on several persons related to destabilising activities in Moldova.
Latvia, together with other Baltic and Nordic countries, have contributed significantly to support for reforms in Moldova, its efforts of strengthening democratic institutions and energy security in the country, as well as to humanitarian assistance. Over the past three years, Latvia has channelled EUR 150,000 towards the strengthening of Moldova’s energy security, as well as sending its expert to serve on the EU Partnership Mission. Latvia’s IT companies are also considering opportunities and are prepared to get involved in building critical infrastructure in Moldova.
Cristina Gherasimov also met with the Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Artjoms Uršuļskis, the Chair of the Saeima Foreign Affairs Committee, Ināra Mūrniece, the Chair of the Saeima European Affairs Committee, Edmunds Cepurītis, and members of the committees.
The Deputy Prime Minister then visited Riga Graduate School of Law running the Intensive Programme in EU Law and Economics for EU Neighbourhood Policy, Central Asian and Western Balkans countries, which has been acquired by 73 Moldovan students.
Further information:
- Baiba Braže with Baltic and Nordic Ministers in Moldova: we all hope our experience will help Moldovans make their decision in a referendum on EU membership based on facts rather than fear
- Baiba Braže in a meeting with the Foreign Minister of Moldova Mihai Popșoi: Latvia fully supports Moldova on its path to the EU