Mierina promises Moldovan counterpart support fight against Russian influence

RIGA - Saeima Speaker Daiga Mierina (Greens/Farmers) has promised her Moldovan counterpart Igor Grosu further practical support from Latvia, including in combating Russia's influence and its hybrid attacks, the Saeima press service informed LETA.

Mierina, during the meeting with the Moldovan parliament speaker in the Moldovan capital Chisinau on Monday, noted that the two parliaments have excellent parliamentary cooperation. She underlined that since 2024 the Saeima has also supported practical training for the staff of the Moldovan National Assembly, and this program will continue this year.

The Saeima speaker stressed that Latvia understood Moldova's challenges, as Latvia had also liberated itself from the Soviet Union 35 years ago. Therefore, Latvia appreciates the ongoing comprehensive reforms in Moldova and its strong commitment to continue them, Mierina said.

"Latvia supports at the European Union (EU) level and bilaterally the strengthening of Moldova's security and resilience, the country's integration into the EU and the implementation of reforms," Mierina said, highlighting the impact of this year's Moldovan parliamentary elections on the country's foreign policy course, as well as the fair and free from external influence conduct of the elections.

Mierina also reaffirmed Latvia's support to Moldova in the face of Russia's hybrid attacks, noting that Latvia will continue to provide practical support for the resilience of Moldova's energy sector. "It is possible to achieve the country's development without the Russian economy. Our example shows this," Mierina stressed.

As reported earlier, Mierina is on a visit to Moldova until 15 April, where she will also meet with Moldovan President Maia Sandu.

During her visit, the Saeima speaker will also meet with the President of Moldova, Maia Sandu. She will also meet with the Vice-President of the Moldovan Parliament, Doina Gherman.

Mierina will also travel to Ungheni, Moldova, where she will discuss regional development issues with representatives of the region. The Moldovan side will learn about Latvia's experience of the benefits and challenges of EU integration. Ungheni has a cooperation agreement with Auce in Latvia.