Three EU countries are currently involved in a desperate scramble to stop Putin in invading another country. In a bid to bolster Moldova’s resilience against increasing Russian pressure, the ‘Weimar Triangle’ comprising Germany, France, and Poland has pledged joint investment to stabilise the country’s fragile public finances.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock announced the collaborative initiative following discussions with her Moldovan counterpart, Mihai Popsoi, in Berlin on Tuesday.
Baerbock stressed the significance of fortifying Moldova’s security, particularly in economic terms, within the framework of the Weimar Triangle.
As Moldova edges closer to commencing official EU accession talks, it faces mounting challenges, exacerbated by Russian interference and the economic fallout from the conflict in Ukraine.
While European assistance has been extended to Moldova through bilateral channels and the multilateral Moldova Support Platform, plans are underway to enhance the role of the Weimar Triangle as a conduit for unified European action.
Baerbock stressed that future support must transcend mere aid, advocating for substantial business investments to bolster Moldova’s economic resilience.
“Aid alone cannot counter [Russia’s] hybrid warfare, but economic strength must come from the country itself. This means that investment is key,” Baerbock said.
The revitalisation of collaboration within the Weimar format has gained momentum, with a recent emphasis on addressing defence issues and the Ukrainian conflict.
In March, leaders from the three EU nations convened in Berlin, delineating shared priorities for assisting Ukraine, which included stimulating the country’s economy through investments in defence industries.
Moldova stands to benefit significantly from EU support and eventual accession, offering a beacon of hope for its citizens amid economic challenges exacerbated by its historical reliance on Russian energy supplies.
For Popsoi, Moldova’s Foreign Minister, EU assistance and the prospect of accession represent a pathway to a brighter future for his compatriots. He underscored the profound impact of the ongoing conflict on Moldova’s economic stability, highlighting the imperative for diversification away from dependence on Russian energy.
