“The EU and I”: Expert says laws alone aren’t enough without working institutions

The process of European integration in the Republic of Moldova is already having an impact at the local level; however, it remains not fully explained and would be challenging to implement without functional institutions and genuine dialogue between central and local authorities. Mayors and public policy experts emphasize that the success of negotiations with the European Union relies not only on laws and schedules but also on the administration’s ability to deliver tangible results for citizens.

January 15: National Culture Day in Moldova and Romania, honoring Mihai Eminescu

The Republic of Moldova and Romania celebrate National Culture Day on January 15. This day honors our shared cultural heritage and commemorates the birthday of Mihai Eminescu, the national poet of all Romanians. Traditionally, cultural and artistic events are held on both sides of the Prut to mark this occasion.

MFA: US visa suspension has limited impact; Moldovans still allowed entry

The United States of America (USA) 's decision to temporarily suspend the issuance of visas, effective January 21, 2026, also applies to citizens of the Republic of Moldova. However, this suspension does not constitute a travel ban or restriction on access to the USA. Issued immigrant visas will not be revoked, and the processing of non-immigrant visas will remain unaffected. These clarifications were provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Moldova (MFA).

Moldova opens new headquarters to strengthen border security

The Republic of Moldova is enhancing its border security with the inauguration of the new headquarters for the Passenger Information Directorate (PID). This facility, which opened on January 14, represents a significant investment that will facilitate the swift identification of risks, enable authorities to make quicker decisions, and promote safer travel for citizens.

"Creative Europe": Information office in Chisinau, to facilitate the application process of cultural projects

The Republic of Moldova will be able to access European funds for cultural projects after it joins the European Union's "Creative Europe" Program on January 1, 2026. To help facilitate access to this program, the authorities in Chișinău will establish an information office, as announced by Andrei Chistol, the head of the section at the Ministry of Culture.

New requirements for renewable energy installers, with CNED oversight

Installers of systems utilizing renewable energy sources (RES) will be registered in a dedicated registry. They will be required to submit a list of completed projects and their beneficiaries to the National Center for Sustainable Energy (CNED) every six months. This measure is outlined in a government-approved regulation dated January 14 and aims to align the national framework with European requirements.

Over 74,000 left bank residents are medically insured. The state paid over 140 million lei for their treatment

Tens of thousands of residents of the Transnistrian region receive treatment and compensated medicines in hospitals and clinics on the right bank of the Nistru. According to authorities, 74,500 Moldovan citizens living on the left bank hold medical insurance within the national system. Many of them, including children, pensioners, and vulnerable people, receive coverage paid by the state.

Forced leave for CFM employees. They will return to work at the beginning of February

The forced leave at the state enterprise Calea Ferată din Moldova (CFM) was extended. The measure affects more than a thousand employees who, after staying home for two weeks, were told they would return to work only at the beginning of next month. During this period, they receive half of their salary.

Public Broadcaster receives 21 million lei from Japan for upgrades

The company Teleradio-Moldova (TRM) will upgrade its audiovisual equipment through purchases funded by a grant from Japan. The draft ratification of the agreement was approved on January 14 at the Executive meeting in Chisinau.

Improvised farm in Hâncești sees 70 pigs killed

A total of 70 pigs were slaughtered at an illegal farm in the village of Boghiceni, Hâncești district. According to the village mayor, Ion Zoină, the farm was operating without proper authorization.

Three doctors may face jail in connection with Comrat deaths

Three doctors from the Gagauzia Autonomous Region are facing up to three years in prison for alleged malpractice that resulted in the death of two patients. The Prosecutor General's Office has announced that it has submitted two criminal cases to court against these doctors, who are accused of failing to adhere to medical rules and procedures.

Internships in Moldova for young Europeans: Government approves France volunteering program

The Republic of Moldova and France are initiating an international volunteering program in enterprises, which will offer young people from the European Economic Area, including France, the opportunity to complete professional internships in Moldova. These activities will take place at the branches of French companies within Moldova or at their partner organizations. The agreement was approved by the Government during a meeting on January 14.