Over 100 young people discussed Moldova’s European path at a new edition of “EU Talks”

“The future begins with us” was the central theme of the latest edition of EU Talks, dedicated to the engagement of young people in the European integration process of the Republic of Moldova. Organized as a satellite event of the EU Enlargement Forum, it took place in Brussels on 18 November 2025, bringing together more than 100 young people from across the country to discuss Moldova’s European 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 spoke about the essential role of youth engagement in the integration process and the positive impact of EU projects and initiatives on the daily lives of Moldovan citizens.

“Moldova has taken important steps towards the European Union — through reforms, open dialogue, and the involvement of young people and civil society. For the European Union, young people like you are not only the future, but also the present. This is why programmes such as Erasmus+, EU4Youth, internships, trainings, and exchanges exist — to help you grow, connect, and become leaders. We are living a historic moment — a time of change and progress. It is a moment of courage, unity, and confidence in Moldova’s European future. The European Union stands firmly by the Republic of Moldova on this journey.” said Iwona Piórko, EU Ambassador to the Republic of Moldova.

“Young people are a powerful voice in society and the strongest ambassadors of European values. In the European integration process, we need your ideas, your vision, and your engagement. Today I met over 100 young people, members of Euro Clubs across the country. I shared with them the progress made on our European agenda and the steps that lie ahead. I encouraged them to continue working together with the whole society to move things forward and promote European values in every community.” added Deputy Prime Minister Cristina Gherasimov.

A highlight of the event was the discussion panel “Young Innovators and EU Support”, where young entrepreneurs and students shared how EU funding programmes and academic mobility opportunities helped them turn their ideas into sustainable businesses and innovative projects.

One of the panel speakers, Daniel Cebotari, Master’s student and Erasmus+ beneficiary, emphasized how European academic exchanges shaped both his professional path and 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.”

The EU Talks event, organized as part of the “Strategic Communication and Media Support in the Republic of Moldova” project funded by the European Union, serves as a platform for dialogue between the EU and the citizens of Moldova.