Thirty years ago today was the start of the important partnership between the United States and Moldova. It started as an agreement between governments. And it was built by our people-to-people ties over that time.
It is my honor to lead the U.S. Embassy in Moldova in continuing to strengthen this partnership. Ten American Ambassadors have occupied this seat before me, but I am lucky to be here now at this historic moment.
As I told President Sandu this week, our two countries have much to celebrate together and much more to achieve together.
In the last 30 years more than 5,000 Moldovans have traveled to the United States on exchange programs. They have studied in U.S. universities and high schools. Others have strengthened their professional skills. At the same time, thousands of Americans have come here as Peace Corps volunteers and Fulbright program participants, and business people. Some came as tourists to sample Moldova’s famous hospitality. Our ties are stronger every year.
Our partnership helped us face a global pandemic together. The United States delivered vaccines that are now providing life-saving protection to hundreds of thousands of Moldovans. We also donated ventilators, personal protective equipment, refrigerators, and other vital supplies worth more than $9 million.
Since 1992, the United States has invested more than $1.5 billion in the Republic of Moldova – everything from roads and infrastructure to agriculture and academics. Thousands of Moldovan lives have been improved through these projects.
But this is just the beginning.
We will continue to build our partnership, together, based on shared values and common interests. I know our partnership will grow and thrive over the next 30 years. This is a day to celebrate!
