EU Talks: Young People Discussed Moldova’s European Path with the EU Ambassador
“The future starts with us” was the central theme of a new edition of EU Talks, dedicated to the role of young people in the Republic of Moldova’s EU integration process. Held as a satellite event to the EU Enlargement Forum, which will take place in Brussels on 18 November 2025, the discussion brought together more than 100 young people from across the country to talk about Moldova’s European journey and future.
The event was opened by Iwona Piórko, EU Ambassador to the Republic of Moldova, and Cristina Gherasimov, Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration, who highlighted the essential role of youth engagement in the integration process and the positive impact that EU initiatives and projects have on citizens’ daily lives. Participants had the opportunity to hear directly from Moldovan and European officials about their role in the accession process, civic involvement, the reforms needed for Moldova’s EU membership, and the tangible benefits of EU support.
“Moldova has taken important steps toward the European Union – through reforms, open dialogue, and the engagement of young people and civil society. For the European Union, young people like you are not only the future, but also the present. That’s why programmes such as Erasmus+, EU4Youth, internships, trainings, and exchange opportunities exist – to help you grow, connect, and become leaders. We are living through a historic moment, a time of change and progress. This is a moment for courage, unity, and confidence in Moldova’s European future. The European Union stands firmly with the Republic of Moldova on this journey,” said EU Ambassador Iwona Piórko.
“Young people are a powerful voice in society and the most important ambassadors of European values. In the EU integration process, we need your ideas, your vision, and your involvement. Today I met more than 100 young people, members of Euro Clubs from across the country. I shared with them our achievements on the European agenda and the next steps ahead. I encouraged them to continue working together – with the whole society – to drive change and promote European values in every community,” said Cristina Gherasimov, Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration.
A highlight of the event was the panel discussion “Young Innovators and EU Support”, where entrepreneurs and students spoke about EU funding programmes and academic mobility opportunities that have helped them turn their ideas into sustainable businesses and innovative projects.
One of the panel participants, Daniel Cebotari, a master’s student and Erasmus+ beneficiary, shared how European academic exchanges influenced both his professional path and his personal development: “Erasmus+ gave me the opportunity to meet young people from all over Europe, discover new perspectives, and learn through collaboration. This experience helped me grow both as a professional and as a leader. I personally encourage everyone to apply and benefit from EU programmes and initiatives.”
Background information
The EU Talks event was organised under the project “Strategic Communication and Media Support in the Republic of Moldova”, funded by the European Union. The EU Talks series serves as a dialogue platform between the EU and Moldovan citizens, aimed at improving public understanding of the accession process and the concrete benefits that EU support brings across various fields – from education and entrepreneurship to reforms and community development.
Members of the EU Information Centres network and Euro Clubs, along with entrepreneurs and students benefiting from EU support, took part in EU Talks: The Future Starts with Us, engaging in interactive discussions on European integration and Moldova’s future within the European Union.
