Moldovan PM Tofan Arrives in Kyiv for High-Level Talks
The visit focuses on energy security, trade, and EU accession pathways, with a cabinet delegation accompanying the prime minister.
By Giulia Marshall ·
Moldovan Prime Minister Vasile Tofan landed in Kyiv on Monday, October 26, to begin a working visit focused on bilateral relations and regional security. His schedule includes high-level meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Prime Minister Serhii Koretskyi, and Ruslan Stefanchuk, the chairman of the Verkhovna Rada. Tofan is not traveling alone; three cabinet members accompany him: Infrastructure Minister Vladimir Bolea, Defence Minister Anatolie Nosatîi, and Energy Minister Dorin Junghietu.
The Moldovan government announced that the agenda for the visit centers on strengthening economic and trade cooperation between the two nations. Officials plan to discuss specific strategies to deepen these ties. The talks will also address regional security concerns and the respective paths Moldova and Ukraine are taking toward joining the European Union. These topics form the core of the diplomatic engagement outlined by the Moldovan government.
Tofan and Koretskyi are set to join the Kyiv International Economic Forum. The event focuses on investment opportunities and the development of economic cooperation. These subjects overlap with the bilateral discussions planned between the two prime ministers. The forum provides a platform for both leaders to engage with business stakeholders and discuss the economic landscape of the region.
Energy security has been a priority in recent diplomatic exchanges. On October 14, Ukrainian Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal met with Tofan in Ukraine. They discussed common challenges in the energy sector, preparations for the winter months, and the development of cooperation between their countries. This meeting set the stage for the current visit.
During that earlier meeting, Tofan stated that Moldova was considering purchasing natural gas from Ukraine. He said he intended to raise the possibility of these gas purchases during his trip to Kyiv. The prime minister identified the gas deal as a key issue he wanted to address on this visit. The discussions aim to secure reliable energy supplies for Moldova as it prepares for colder weather.
Moldovan President Maia Sandu has also addressed the humanitarian dimension of the conflict. She stated that Moldova is prepared to accept another influx of refugees from Ukraine. Sandu said her country is ready to receive people should they begin to leave due to the severe humanitarian situation. This statement clarifies the government's stance on potential new arrivals.
The visit concludes the initial phase of high-level diplomatic engagement between the two countries this month. Tofan’s meetings with the Ukrainian leadership are scheduled to continue throughout the day. The outcome of the talks will determine the next steps in their bilateral cooperation.
