Diplomat Annalena Baerbock journeys to the city of Paris to reunite with her cherished friend.

In a significant development, Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock of Germany will participate in the third Moldova Support Conference, scheduled to take place in Bucharest on Monday, November 21st. Her French counterpart, Catherine Colonna, will also be present at the event, which is organised by the European Union.

The conference aims to address the long-term needs of the Republic of Moldova, particularly its security, amidst a severe energy crisis. The country is 80% dependent on Russian gas, and drastic cuts in Russian energy supplies have exacerbated the situation.

The first Moldova Conference was held in Berlin earlier this year, initiated by Foreign Minister Baerbock, resulting in the establishment of the Support Platform for Moldova. This platform aims to provide a framework for international partners to support the Republic of Moldova, focusing on both immediate crisis needs and long-term security.

The Republic of Moldova has been providing temporary shelter to nearly 100,000 Ukrainian refugees, further straining its resources. The support from international partners, as facilitated by the Support Platform, is crucial in managing this humanitarian crisis.

Before departing for Paris, Foreign Minister Baerbock shared her thoughts on the close connection between Germany and France, stating that despite a history marked by suffering, war, and bitter rivalry, the people on both sides of the Rhine are closely connected and intertwined in Europe today. She believes that the human closeness and warmth despite cultural differences is a remarkable success and the foundation of their cooperation.

The German-French relationship extends beyond the political level, involving joint initiatives like the TV channel ARTE, the AbiBac school leaving certificate, and over 2,300 German-French partnerships between cities, federal states, and regions.

On November 20th, Foreign Minister Baerbock will travel to Paris and meet her French counterpart Catherine Colonna on November 21st. During their meeting, they will discuss the future of the German-French friendship and the European Union. They will also engage with students of a Parisian high school to share their perspectives on these important topics.

Foreign Minister Baerbock considers the friendship with France as a central part of Germany's political identity. She believes that this friendship is a significant aspect of the European Union, as it symbolises the unity and cooperation necessary for the bloc's success. The third Moldova Support Conference is another testament to this cooperation, as both ministers work together to support the Republic of Moldova in its time of need.

Diplomat Annalena Baerbock journeys to the city of Paris to reunite with her cherished friend.