President Maia Sandu presented the Presidency’s priorities for 2026 during a press conference, TRIBUNA reports.

The head of state stated that, given the increasingly worrying situation in the region and globally, Moldova must focus on two fundamental objectives:

1. Preserving peace
2. Remaining part of the free and democratic world

“The first area of our work concerns foreign policy. Foreign policy becomes a key instrument in the new circumstances. When international law no longer protects you sufficiently, you must be part of alliances, have reliable and steadfast partners capable of helping when needed. Therefore, Moldova’s foreign policy will focus on firmly anchoring our country in solid, credible, and pragmatic partnerships — partnerships between states that support each other in an increasingly hostile world. Our most important partnership is with the EU: accession to the European Union is the most realistic strategy for Moldova’s survival and development as part of the free world. The window of opportunity is limited and must be used as a priority. Likewise, the strategic relationship with Romania is a central pillar of our security, stability, and European path,” she said.

Another priority area is security and resilience:
“In an increasingly uncertain and volatile world, it is essential to be able to protect ourselves — from external interference like that seen in recent elections, and by strengthening resilience with a focus on prevention and rapid response to security challenges in the cyber, information, and public order domains.”

A newer but extremely important priority concerns children’s safety.

“We must care about the world we leave to our children, but also about their health. Today, almost every child and teenager lives partly — or even mostly — online. Studies show a harsh reality: teenagers who spend more than 3 hours a day on communication platforms have double the risk of depression and anxiety symptoms. Screen time at night is increasing. Real social life — with friends, family, classmates, conflicts and learning to resolve them — is being replaced by an online, unauthentic existence. My message is simple: we must not blame children for the world they grow up in. Adults shape the environment, set the rules, and build support. We will focus on three interconnected dimensions: mental health in the digital age, preventing drug use, and reducing health risk factors for children,” the President said.

Maia Sandu also highlighted another priority: fighting corruption and justice reform.
“Even if these are not direct prerogatives of the Presidency, the fight against corruption is a matter of national security. We will continue to monitor, oversee, and — when things go wrong — address issues related to justice reform.”

The fifth priority concerns the diaspora.
“The Presidency plays an important role in foreign policy by promoting the interests of Moldovan citizens living abroad, as we have done through negotiating and advancing bilateral agreements on social protection, recognition of driving licences, and more. We will continue this work. We are also interested in supporting the Government’s efforts to make returning home easier for our citizens,” she added.

Maia Sandu concluded that these areas will guide her work and that of her team throughout 2026.