EU's incoming FM, Federica Mogherini, appreciates Moldova's pro-EU but not anti-Russian approach

"Moldova is an example for the states with European aspirations, especially because it chose the path to the West and simultaneously wants to keep the good relations with the East," visiting Italian Foreign Minister Federica Mogherini Monday told her Moldovan counterpart Iurie Leanca.

Mogherini came to Moldova for a meeting of the European Action Group for Moldova. It is Mogherini's first visit abroad after her designation on Saturday as EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.

Mogherini said it was symbolic that it was Moldova she paid her first visit to after assuming the office. "Symbolism is very important, but the accomplishments are also important," the official promised her full support for Moldova's European choice.

Leanca congratulated Mogherini on her appointment as the EU's foreign policy chief and wished her success, according to a release of the government's press service, reaching here from Chisinau.

"Everything that is taking place in the EU is important for the countries situated in its neighbor, including Moldova. We have common Latin origins that draw us closer," he stated.

Moldova initiated its Association Agreement with the EU at a November 2013 summit meeting in Vilnius of the Eastern Partnership Program, and the document, which includes the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement, was signed in Brussels on June 27.

Leanca stressed on different occasions that Moldova's European integration should not preclude the country from enhancing, improving, enriching its relationship with Russia.

The Chisinau authorities sent official delegations to Moscow to discuss with the Russian partners, amid multiple economic embargoes imposed by the latter on Moldovan fresh fruits, canned vegetables and wines, in response to the country's political and economic association with the EU.

Foreign ministers of EU countries gathered Monday in Chisinau for a meeting of the European Action Group for Moldova, in a sign of support for the former Soviet republic's EU ambition.
Sources: Xinhua - globaltimes.cn
2/9/14
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