On Wednesday, 1 April, President Maia Sandu paid an official visit to Riga at the invitation of Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs. At Riga Castle, the two leaders discussed strengthening bilateral cooperation, Latvia’s support for Moldova’s accession to the European Union, and the continued need to support Ukraine. President Sandu also met with Latvia’s Prime Minister Evika Siliņa, as well as parliamentary leaders and members of the committees on Foreign Affairs, European Affairs, and Defence.

President Rinkēvičs reaffirmed that Moldova’s European integration is a priority for regional security. He stated that Latvia strongly supports Moldova’s rapid accession to the EU, believes negotiations should begin immediately, and will remain steadfast in its support.

During their joint press conference, President Sandu emphasized that Moldova’s EU membership is essential for European security, noting that a stable, European Moldova cannot be destabilized or used as a pressure point against the continent.

In her address to the Saeima, Latvia’s Parliament, Sandu highlighted the shared history of resilience between the two countries and reiterated that Moldova’s rightful place is in the European family. She also spoke about current threats to democracy and the EU’s role as an anchor of peace, freedom, and security. Moldova’s accession, she stressed, is not only a national goal but a strategic decision with regional impact.

In Riga, President Sandu also reaffirmed Moldova’s readiness to join the coalition of countries committed to guaranteeing Ukraine’s security after the war. She thanked Latvia for its exceptional and unwavering support, among the most generous in the world relative to the size of its economy.