Nordic-Baltic joint statement on the situation in report by the OSCE mission in Moldova

Thank you, Mr. Chair

I deliver this statement on behalf of Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway and Sweden.

We thank Ambassador Kelly Keiderling for a clear‑sighted report that underlines the OSCE Mission’s unique added value in Moldova. Over the past months the Mission has again translated its mandate into measurable progress. These concrete, people‑centered results speak directly to Nordic‑Baltic priorities: strengthening societal resilience, reducing military risk, and fostering human contact. We also commend the Mission’s environmental and security projects—from PCB extraction to safer ammunition storage—that make communities on both banks tangibly safer.

While the report reflects commendable progress, there remains scope to further integrate gender considerations into the Mission’s core political-security work. Embedding a systematic, gender-sensitive conflict analysis—ensuring that both women and men are meaningfully included in dialogue and decision-making—will be essential to advancing a truly inclusive process for conflict resolution. The use of clear indicators and explicit references to the Women, Peace and Security agenda would further enhance the Mission’s ability to help shape a settlement that meets the diverse security needs of all Moldovans.

Moldova remains on the front line of Russia’s aggression and disinformation. We salute the Moldovan authorities for their calm, principled handling of provocations and for their unwavering commitment to European values. The Nordic‑Baltic region stands shoulder to shoulder with Chişinău as it counters cyber‑pressure, malign narratives and economic shocks emanating from the Kremlin’s war against Ukraine.

The Nordic-Baltic countries strongly support Moldova’s EU accession process and are exploring areas of further cooperation. We have committed significant resources in support of Moldova’s reforms, efforts to strengthen democratic institutions and the country’s energy security, as well as humanitarian assistance.

We urge both Sides to build on recent momentum—supported by the Finnish Chairpersonship and the Mission’s good offices—to revive political dialogue and to move, step by step, toward a comprehensive, peaceful settlement within Moldova’s internationally recognised borders and with a special status for Transdniestria.

The Nordic‑Baltic States will continue to back the Mission, and Moldova, every inch of the way, and we look forward to visiting you ambassador Keiderling and the mission next week.

Thank you.