Moldova's prime minister tells UN: 'Small does not mean powerless'

Prime Minister Vasile Topan of the Republic of Moldova addressed the General Assembly, marking his country's 35th anniversary and outlining a national strategy centered on European integration, democratic resilience and economic modernization. He said Moldova had reduced Russian economic leverage, increased renewables to roughly 30% of its energy supply and sought closer trade and technology ties with partners such as the United States.

Topan framed European accession as a citizens' choice: "Choose democracy, choose prosperity, choose peace," he said, adding that Moldova has been a candidate country since 2022 and is moving quickly in accession negotiations. He also announced Moldova's candidacy for the presidency of the 82nd session of the United Nations General Assembly, saying his country wants "a UN that is more effective, more inclusive, and focused on results."