Overview of Moldova

Profile

Republic of Moldova is Eastern European republic sandwiched between Ukraine and Romania. While service industry develops centered on capital Chișinău, most territory covered by fertile black soil zone with grapes, fruits, and grains as major products. Possesses world's largest underground wine cellars, with wine as symbolic export. Post-independence chronic economic downturn and labor population outflow troubling, but seeking solutions through EU economic cooperation strengthening and tourism promotion. Additionally, Transnistria region east of Dniester River is de facto separated, with national integration and balancing diplomacy between Europe and Russia as challenges.

Official name: Republic of Moldova
Common name: Moldova
Numeric code: 498
Alpha-3 code: MDA
Alpha-2 code: MD
Population: Approximately 2.6 million (2023)
Population density: Approximately 76 people/km²
Primary languages: Romanian
Major religions: Eastern Orthodox Church
National anthem: Limba Noastră (Our Language)
Calling code: +373
Internet TLD: .md

History

Started as part of medieval Principality of Moldavia, passed through Russian Empire, Romanian, and Soviet rule, gaining independence in 1991.

14th century established Principality of Moldavia came under Ottoman Empire suzerainty, annexed by Russian Empire in 19th century. After World War I, incorporated into Kingdom of Romania, but 1940 Soviet occupation established Moldavian Soviet Socialist Republic. Current Moldova emerged from August 27, 1991 independence declaration. Armed conflict in Transnistria immediately after independence left region in unrecognized separation. Since then, politics continue with pro-European and pro-Russian factions alternating, while reforms progress toward EU membership goal.

Geography & climate

Gentle hills and fertile black soil plains spread between Dniester and Prut rivers, with topography mild at highest point around 430m altitude.

Warm humid continental climate

Area: Europe / 33851 km²
Capital: Chișinău
Largest city: Chișinău
Coastal status: No
Bordering countries: Romania, Ukraine

Natural resources

Limestone, Clay, Gravel, Lignite, Gypsum, Granite, Groundwater, Fertile black soil land, Forest resources, Fruit trees, Grapes, Natural gas (small-scale), Honey, Walnuts, Wild medicinal herbs

Politics

Government: Parliamentary republic

Economy

Currency: Moldovan Leu (MDL)

GDP (nominal): 93 hundred million USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): 340 hundred million USD (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Romanian

Time zone: Eastern European Time (EET), Eastern European Summer Time (EEST)

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Moldovans/Romanians, Ukrainians, Russians, Gagauz, Bulgarians, Roma, Jews

Life expectancy

72.3

Literacy rate

99.4

National sports

Football, Rugby union, Trîntă (folk wrestling), Rowing, Judo