In a formal ceremony today (Tuesday), Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar officially inaugurated the Israeli Embassy in Chișinău, the capital of Moldova – with a certain historical delay. Since gaining independence in 1992, Moldova has maintained stable relations with Israel and even opened an embassy in Israel in 1994, located near the Kirya in Tel Aviv. Yet until now, Israel had only assigned a mobile ambassador to Moldova.
The new embassy is a gesture of gratitude for Moldova’s consistent support of Israel, both before and during the war. In 2018, the Moldovan president visited Israel and met with Prime Minister Netanyahu, and Moldova has frequently expressed solidarity with Israel’s fight against Hamas and Hezbollah.
One of the strongest links between the two nations is Avigdor Lieberman, a former Foreign, Finance, and Defense Minister, who was born in Moldova and lived there until the age of 20. In 2011, during his tenure as Foreign Minister, Lieberman even made an official visit to Moldova, retracing his roots.
Gideon Sa’ar also has personal ties to Moldova, which he mentioned in his inauguration speech today: “My grandfather, David Zarchanski, of blessed memory, was born in Chișinău in 1908 and immigrated alone to Argentina at the age of 18.”
“Strengthening Relations with Our Allies”
Moldovan Foreign Minister Mihai Popșoi also attended the embassy inauguration ceremony. In his speech, Sa’ar highlighted the importance of the moment: “This is a historic milestone marking a significant step in our relations. Moldova is a friendly country to Israel. Our policy will be to strengthen relations with our allies. Today, we are upgrading our relationship with great joy.” Sa’ar also addressed geopolitical issues, particularly concerning Syria. Earlier in his visit, he also met with Moldovan President Maia Sandu.
With the opening of its first permanent embassy in Moldova, Israel strengthens its diplomatic ties and paves the way for deeper cooperation. This milestone marks a new era of friendship, promising continued growth and collaboration between the two nations.
