Diaspora Forum held in Chișinău

The Republic of Moldova is currently the candidate country advancing at the fastest pace on the path to joining the European Union, and Moldovans abroad can play an important role in promoting and supporting this process. This message was conveyed today by President Maia Sandu at the opening of the Diaspora Forum 2026, held in Chișinău.

The head of state urged the diaspora to consider returning home, emphasizing that the return of Moldovans from abroad would be important both for families and for the development of the Republic of Moldova.

“We know how much you care about this country. For us, those who are here, the country has changed significantly in recent days. The localities have filled with people. We think about how wonderful it would be if this crowd were here not only in August, but throughout the whole year. It would be wonderful from the perspective of the families who are waiting for you, as well as from the perspective of the development of the Republic of Moldova. That is why I ask you to leave here with one thought: what if you came back? I am aware that you will find many reasons that go against this idea. I believe it is important to talk about both the good and the bad, but my request is that this thought passes through your mind and that we give it a chance,” Maia Sandu said.

The president pointed out that the diaspora can have an essential role in promoting the Republic of Moldova and in consolidating support for our country’s accession to the European Union.

“The second request I am making is about what we can do while we are still far from Moldova, until we make a final decision to return. At great speed, we have set off on the path of EU accession and we are working very hard for this goal. The Republic of Moldova is today the candidate country moving at the highest speed towards the European Union. Accession to the EU does not only mean living up to the EU’s expectations. Accession also means making sure that people in the member states know us and understand that we are suitable partners to be part of the European family. In this regard, our communities in the member states can play the most important role. I would like us to aim, by the end of this year, to prepare a plan for each member state and, over the next two to three years—since we have set ourselves the goal of being ready for accession by 2030—to promote the Republic of Moldova and ensure that there are no doubts or misunderstandings about who Moldovans are and why they deserve to be in the EU,” the official said.

Maia Sandu stressed that, during the Diaspora Forum, topics that directly concern Moldovan citizens living abroad will be addressed, as well as the actions taken by the authorities to support those working overseas.

“There are things that have already been resolved and things for which we are still seeking solutions. It is important to talk about the internal problems of the Republic of Moldova, which are probably more numerous than the problems of the diaspora. Therefore, during this session, we will try to have a very concrete dialogue on issues that interest you. I hope you will manage to obtain all the answers you need,” Maia Sandu added.

Every year, the Diaspora Forum brings together Moldovans from all over the world to share ideas, discuss the future of the Republic of Moldova, and identify ways to be actively involved in the country’s development.

The Diaspora Forum is an event organized as part of Diaspora Days 2026, which take place throughout the month of August under the motto “Wherever We Are, Moldova Unites Us!”. The program includes events dedicated to young people, professionals, leaders of diaspora associations, and all citizens interested in contributing to the development of the Republic of Moldova.

The activities are organized by the Diaspora Relations Bureau within the State Chancellery.