EU integration remains chief priority of Moldova's foreign policy - Sandu

CHISINAU. Dec 23 (Interfax) - Integration into the European Union is the chief priority of Moldova's foreign policy, Moldovan President Maia Sandu said.

"The foreign policy should directly accommodate the needs of people, whether they live inside or outside this country. [...] The entry into the European Union is the chief priority of the foreign policy confirmed by the people by voting in the constitutional referendum. Progress at the accession negotiations is essential for the future of the Republic of Moldova," Sandu said at a videoconference with Moldovan ambassadors on Monday, as the Moldovan Foreign Ministry's press service told Interfax.

"It is important to achieve instant results for people and the business community on this path, such as the permanent lift of quotas for agricultural exports to the EU, the accession to the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) and the reduction of roaming fees," she said.

As to other priorities, she said it was necessary to use the 1.8-billion-euro investment plan offered by the European Union. "The Growth Plan for the Republic of Moldova will help develop the economy by investments in infrastructure, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, and creation of jobs," Sandu said.