During his official visit to Bulgaria, Moldovan Minister Mihai Popșoi held a constructive dialogue with his Bulgarian counterpart, Velislava Petrova. The primary focus of the meeting between the two diplomats was on deepening cooperation in the fields of economy and trade, ensuring energy stability, as well as our country's long-term commitment to the development of the Taraclia region and the protection of the rights of ethnic Bulgarians in Moldova.

A special emphasis in the discussions was placed on the role of our community in Moldova, numbering nearly 50,000 people, located primarily in ATU Gagauzia and the Taraclia district, but also in other parts of the country. Minister Petrova pointed out that our country attaches great importance to Chisinau's efforts to ensure an appropriate environment for the preservation of the cultural identity and education of our compatriots. She spoke highly of the transformation of the “Grigore Țamblac” State University of Taraclia into a branch of the “Angel Kanchev” University of Ruse, where over 400 students are enrolled, describing it as the first Bulgarian state higher education institution abroad. “The Bulgarian community is a natural bridge between Bulgaria and Moldova and a factor that serves as a powerful stimulus for the development of our cooperation,” emphasized Minister Petrova.

Regarding the current administrative changes in Moldova, the Bulgarian side received assurances that they would not have a negative impact on minorities. Velislava Petrova expressed satisfaction with the guarantees for preserving the territorial integrity and functions of Taraclia, stressing: “We highly appreciate the consistent actions of the Moldovan government to preserve the territorial integrity and functional powers of Taraclia, as well as the presented plan for transforming the region, through which it will acquire a legal status analogous to that of the capital, Chisinau, and the second-largest Moldovan city, Bălți.”

Bulgaria unequivocally reaffirmed its readiness to continue supporting Moldova's path toward European Union membership. Minister Petrova welcomed the success of the local authorities, achieved based on their own merits despite the complex geopolitical situation and military conflicts in the region. “Moldova clearly shows that when there is political will and readiness for reform, the path to joining the European Union is possible, even in a deteriorating security environment and with military actions in the immediate vicinity,” she stated.

In the energy sector, the priority of regional connectivity and the diversification of sources were highlighted with the aim of ensuring stable supplies for Southeast Europe. In this context, Minister Petrova highlighted the Vertical Gas Corridor as a strategic tool that will contribute significantly to Moldova's energy independence. “This is a concrete dimension of our partnership and of Bulgaria’s consistent support,” added the Bulgarian foreign minister.