Moldovan PM Tofan Visits Kyiv for Trade and Security Talks

Moldovan Prime Minister Vasile Tofan arrived in Kyiv on Monday, October 26, for a working visit focused on bilateral relations, economic cooperation, and regional security. The trip includes meetings with top Ukrainian officials and participation in a local economic forum. The Moldovan government announced the agenda in a statement reported by Newsmaker and European Pravda.

Three members of Tofan’s cabinet traveled with him to the Ukrainian capital. The delegation includes Vladimir Bolea, the minister of infrastructure and regional development, Defense Minister Anatolie Nosatîi, and Energy Minister Dorin Junghietu. Their presence signals the technical scope of the discussions planned for the week.

Tofan is scheduled to meet Ukrainian Prime Minister Serhii Koretskyi, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Ruslan Stefanchuk, the chairman of the Verkhovna Rada. These high-level meetings form the core of the visit. The government stated that the prime ministers will discuss methods to strengthen ties and expand trade.

The bilateral talks will also cover regional security and the respective paths of Moldova and Ukraine toward the European Union. Both leaders are expected to address these political and strategic issues during their session. The agenda mirrors the priorities outlined in the Moldovan government’s announcement.

The two prime ministers will also attend the Kyiv International Economic Forum. The event focuses on investment opportunities and the development of economic cooperation. These themes align with the subjects set for their bilateral discussions. Tofan and Koretskyi will participate in the forum alongside other officials.

Energy cooperation had already become a priority between the two nations earlier in October. On October 14, Ukrainian Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal met with Tofan to discuss common challenges in the energy sector. They reviewed winter preparations and ways to deepen cooperation. Two days before that meeting, on October 12, Tofan said Moldova was considering buying natural gas from Ukraine to meet domestic needs. He stated his intent to raise the possibility of such purchases during his visit to Kyiv.

Moldovan President Maia Sandu addressed the humanitarian context separately. She said her country was prepared to receive another influx of refugees from Ukraine if people began leaving due to the severe situation. Her statement confirmed Moldova’s readiness to accept those who may depart.