Moldovan President Maia Sandu receives European Order of Merit in Strasbourg

Moldovan President Maia Sandu arrived in Strasbourg as part of a European diplomatic tour to promote her country's EU accession. She met European Parliament President Roberta Metsola and leaders of the Parliament's main political groups, held bilateral talks, and was presented with the European Order of Merit – a distinction created to honour individuals who advance European integration and values.

Following the ceremony, Sandu travelled to the Netherlands, meeting Prime Minister Rob Jetten and Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen, issuing a joint press statement. She concluded the tour in Prague at the GLOBSEC Forum 2026, where she addressed Moldova’s experience combating external interference and defending its democracy.