Have the article read by OpenAI (Beta). Please note that AI translations may take some time to process.Brussels (dpa) – European Union senior officials expressed their relief over the pro-European President of Moldova, Maia Sandu, winning a second term in office after the second round of elections on Sunday (November 3).
“Sandu has shown extraordinary courage (and) leadership to stand up for her people. Europe will keep standing with Moldova on this journey,” European Parliament President Roberta Metsola wrote on X.
The incumbent president won 54 percent of votes in Sunday’s runoff election against Alexandr Stoianoglo, who was considered the pro-Russian candidate.
EU foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell congratulated Sandu. “Moldovans have shown once again their determination to build a European future despite hybrid attempts to undermine democracy,” he wrote on X.
“The people of Moldova have reaffirmed their trust in your leadership, stability and commitment to a European future,” wrote European Council President Charles Michel on the social media platform.
“I’m glad to continue working with you towards a European future for Moldova and its people,” wrote European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on X, addressing Sandu. “It takes a rare kind of strength to overcome the challenges you’ve faced in this election,” von der Leyen added.
Moldova, a former Soviet Republic located between Ukraine and EU member state Romania, applied for EU membership under Sandu’s leadership following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. It was granted EU candidate status in June that same year and accession talks began in June 2024.
On October 20, Moldovans narrowly voted yes to agreeing to enshrine a pro-EU course into the constitution. The referendum was closely watched in Brussels with regard to the enlargement process. (4 November)
The editorial responsibility for the publication lies with dpa.