This article examines the effectiveness of high performance sports as a tool for establishing and strengthening cooperation between the Republic of Moldova and other states, by creating a positive image and forming relations that official diplomacy is not able to carry out. In this regard, the experience of using sports diplomacy in the establishment of bilateral relations, as well as the solution of interstate, interethnic conflicts in the post-Soviet space is analyzed. In particular, the role of "football diplomacy" in resuming the negotiation process between Chisinau and Tiraspol, creating conditions conducive to resolving the long-term conflict is considered. In addition, football competitions between the embassies accredited in the Republic of Moldova, as well as the participation of Moldovan diplomatic missions in similar competitions abroad, play an important role in shaping the positive image of our country in the international arena. An essential factor of "soft power" is sports dances and the success of Moldovan athletes at international venues.