The interlocutors discussed Moldova’s progress in EU accession talks and Lithuania’s role in this regard once it assumes the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the first half of 2027.
At a press conference, Budrys said that Lithuania would seek to accelerate Moldova’s EU membership process and expressed hope that the remaining negotiation clusters would be opened before the start of Lithuania’s EU Presidency.
The head of Lithuania’s diplomacy said that Lithuania would strive to achieve as much progress as possible in the EU accession process for Moldova and Ukraine, adhering to the merit-based principle of EU enlargement.
He noted that two out of six clusters in Moldova’s accession talks have been opened, while Lithuania is actively striving to accelerate this process.
In turn, Mr Popșoi stated that Moldova has a unique opportunity to accelerate the EU integration process and expects Lithuania’s support during its EU Presidency.
The heads of diplomacy also discussed regional security and Russia’s hybrid threats, support for Ukraine and its energy sector, and preparation for winter.
Budrys also noted that Lithuania sees opportunities to expand cooperation with Moldova in the defence industry and in the field of dual‑use technologies.
Popșoi thanked Lithuania for its support in strengthening Moldova’s resilience in the areas of security, defence, the economy and society.