Moldova

Moldova is a landlocked country in Eastern Europe, bordered by Romania to the west and Ukraine to the north, east, and south. Its capital and largest city is Chișinău. The official language is Romanian (also referred to as Moldovan); the country uses the Latin alphabet. The majority of the population adheres to Orthodox Christianity, and cultural life reflects a blend of Romanian and neighboring influences.

Geography and regional characteristics include about 33,846 square kilometers of mostly rolling plains and low hills, with the Dniester River forming part of the eastern boundary. The climate is temperate continental. Moldova is known for its wine industry, with famous cellar districts in Cricova and Mileștii Mici. The breakaway region of Transnistria lies along the Dniester and has operated with de facto authorities since the early 1990s, with Russian peacekeeping forces present.

History and government: Moldova emerged from the Moldavian SSR after the dissolution of the Soviet Union and declared independence in 1991. It is a parliamentary republic with a president as head of state and a prime minister as head of government, and a unicameral Parliament of 101 seats. The country signed an Association Agreement with the European Union in 2014 and participates in the DCFTA, pursuing closer ties with Europe while maintaining relations with neighboring powers.

Demographics and economy: the population is about 2.6 million, with ethnic Romanians making up a plurality and minorities including Ukrainians and Russians. The economy relies on agriculture, particularly wine production, light manufacturing, and services; remittances from abroad are an important economic factor. Moldova faces ongoing challenges related to governance, regional stability, and modernization.