Moldovan Prime Minister Brings Cabinet to Kyiv for Gas and EU Talks

Moldova and Ukraine have maintained close diplomatic and economic ties throughout the war in eastern Europe. Prime Minister Vasile Tofan arrived in Kyiv on Monday, October 26, for a working visit focused on trade and security.

Tofan is accompanied by three members of his cabinet. The delegation includes Vladimir Bolea, the minister of infrastructure and regional development. Defence Minister Anatolie Nosatîi and Energy Minister Dorin Junghietu are also part of the group. Moldovan media outlet Newsmaker reported the details, citing a statement from the Moldovan government.

The announced schedule lists meetings with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Ruslan Stefanchuk, the chairman of the Verkhovna Rada. Tofan will also hold bilateral discussions with Ukrainian Prime Minister Serhii Koretskyi. The government stated that these talks will cover the development of economic cooperation and regional security.

A central topic for the two leaders is the path both countries are taking toward the European Union. The agenda also includes specific measures to strengthen bilateral relations. Tofan and Koretskyi are scheduled to participate in the Kyiv International Economic Forum. This event focuses on investment opportunities and the development of economic ties.

Energy supply remains a priority for the visit. Tofan stated on October 12 that Moldova is considering buying natural gas from Ukraine to meet its domestic needs. He said he intended to discuss this possibility during his trip to the Ukrainian capital. This statement identified gas purchases as a key issue for the current visit.

Contacts on energy matters began earlier in the month. On October 14, Ukrainian Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal met with Tofan. Their discussions covered common challenges in the energy sector and preparations for the winter. The two officials also reviewed the development of cooperation between their countries.

Moldovan President Maia Sandu recently addressed the humanitarian situation in Ukraine. She said her country is prepared to receive another influx of refugees if the situation forces people to leave. Her statement confirmed Moldova's readiness to accept those departures.