The Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Moldova in Cyprus was officially inaugurated in Nicosia on Monday evening, in the presence of Foreign Affairs Minister Constantinos Kombos and Moldova’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mihai Popsoi, with Kombos announcing an upcoming visit by Cyprus’ Minister of Labour to Moldova to conclude negotiations on a social insurance agreement.
Addressing the inauguration ceremony, Kombos said there was considerable potential to expand the institutional framework of cooperation between the two countries, with their respective teams expected to work towards this goal in the coming weeks and months.
He said the process would begin with a visit by Cyprus’ Minister of Labour to Moldova to conclude negotiations on a social insurance agreement.
Referring to the bilateral relationship, Kombos stressed the importance of shared values, international law and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states, noting that support between the two countries on these issues was reciprocal.
He also reiterated Cyprus’ commitment to Moldova’s European integration, commending the progress made in implementing reforms and meeting EU accession requirements.
“We have supported Moldova on this journey and we will continue to do so,” he said.
Kombos added that the new Honorary Consulate would serve as “an important reference point” in facilitating the further development of bilateral relations.
For his part, Popsoi described the inauguration as a historic moment in the friendship and partnership between the two countries, thanking Cyprus for its contribution to Moldova’s European path.
“Cyprus has shown time and again that it is a trusted friend of Moldova,” he said, adding that his country would remain a trusted partner of Cyprus, both bilaterally and at multilateral level.
The Moldovan Minister highlighted opportunities to improve trade relations and strengthen investment in Moldova, while placing particular emphasis on people-to-people contacts.
He welcomed the fact that there were now three direct flights a week between the two countries and expressed hope that the Honorary Consulate would serve as a strong bridge between Moldova and Cyprus.
Moldova’s Ambassador to Cyprus, Andrei Popov, praised the appointment of Ioannis Georgoulas as Honorary Consul, highlighting his extensive network of contacts and ability to bring people together.
Georgoulas expressed gratitude for his appointment, saying he was deeply honoured to serve as Moldova’s Honorary Consul and emphasising the importance of relations between the two countries.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of the business community and the Moldovan community in Cyprus.
A reception followed to mark the 35th anniversary of Moldova’s independence.