Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mihai Popșoi met with a group of citizens of the Republic of Moldova living in Toronto, TRIBUNA reports.

During discussions with members of the community, the Deputy Prime Minister spoke about progress on the Republic of Moldova’s European agenda, the steps being taken to advance the country’s path toward EU accession, as well as support for citizens living in Canada, including by facilitating access to consular services.

“European integration means better services, more opportunities, and conditions that will allow those at home to build their future in the Republic of Moldova,” Mihai Popșoi said.

The minister praised the contribution of Moldovan citizens to preserving the country’s culture and traditions, as well as promoting the image of the Republic of Moldova. He also welcomed the work of the 16 Moldovan associations, including the DOR Moldovan-Canadian Association and Moldova-Canada Link, which carry out initiatives aimed at promoting the Romanian language.

“I am pleased to see how well the Moldovan community has integrated into Canadian society while, at the same time, maintaining such close ties with the Republic of Moldova and our traditions. Through everything you do — whether we are talking about initiatives dedicated to culture and the Romanian language or projects and partnerships between business communities — you contribute to a better understanding of the Republic of Moldova internationally,” Mihai Popșoi noted.

The Deputy Prime Minister spoke about the importance of the “The Embassy Comes Closer to You” programme, through which consular services are brought to Moldovan citizens in Canada, including in cities with large Moldovan communities. In the past year alone, 868 citizens benefited from services provided through the programme during 22 outreach visits. In this context, Mihai Popșoi noted that the authorities in Chișinău will continue their efforts to ensure access to services and support for citizens, regardless of where they are located.

To strengthen ties between the Republic of Moldova and its community in Canada, the country’s first Honorary Consulate in Canada was opened earlier this year in the city of Québec. The mission plays an important role in facilitating contacts between citizens, institutions and the business community, as well as in supporting relations between the two countries.

An important topic of discussion was the Social Security Agreement between the Republic of Moldova and Canada, signed on March 13, 2026. The agreement will allow insurance periods completed in the two countries to be combined for the purpose of granting pensions. The Republic of Moldova has completed the ratification procedure, and the two sides are working on the necessary steps for the agreement to enter into force.