Cypriot president makes first official visit to Moldova

Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides conducted the first-ever official visit by a head of state from Cyprus to Chisinau, Moldova, on Saturday. During the visit, he held meetings with Moldovan President Maia Sandu to discuss bilateral relations, regional security, the Cyprus issue, and Moldova’s EU accession path. Christodoulides expressed strong support for Moldova's European integration, labeling EU enlargement a geopolitical necessity. He highlighted that negotiations on the initial accession cluster concerning rule of law and justice reform could commence in June. The leaders also addressed the EU's growth plan for Moldova, which includes a recent €200 million allocation to support infrastructure and economic development. A security agreement was signed between the two nations, described by the parties as the first of several planned collaborative efforts. Both leaders participated in Europe Day celebrations in the capital before the president's departure. President Sandu reaffirmed Moldova's support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Cyprus, while Christodoulides emphasized that Cyprus views enlargement as vital for a stronger European Union.