Prospects for strengthening bilateral cooperation in the field of social protection, as well as the priorities of Cyprus’ Presidency of the Council of the EU, were discussed at a meeting held by Deputy Minister of Social Welfare Clea Papaellina with Moldova’s Minister of Labour and Social Protection Natalia Plugaru on Friday in Nicosia.
According to a press release by the Deputy Ministry, Papaellina “reiterated Cyprus’ commitment to tackling child poverty and social exclusion, stressing that investing in the future of children is a fundamental pillar of European social policy.”
During what was described as a constructive meeting, the press release said, the two sides discussed prospects for enhancing bilateral cooperation in social protection, focusing on the exchange of know-how and good practices, as well as on developing policy dialogue on issues also on the European agenda, such as combating poverty, strengthening the European Child Guarantee and promoting long-term care and active ageing.
Social policy
It added that the Moldovan Minister showed particular interest in methods for assessing persons with disabilities and in actions related to the implementation of the Recommendation establishing a European Child Guarantee by the Republic of Cyprus.
“Particular emphasis was placed on the priorities of Cyprus’ Presidency of the Council of the European Union in relation to social policy in the first half of 2026, within the portfolio of the Deputy Ministry of Social Welfare,” the press release noted.
The meeting also covered the importance of Early Childhood Education and Care, the challenges posed by demographics and the green transition, as well as the need to empower, support and integrate persons with disabilities.
The excellent level of cooperation between the two countries and their shared will to further deepen relations in the field of social welfare were reaffirmed, the press release concluded.
CNA