The Republic of Moldova moves closer to opening negotiations with the EU
The Republic of Moldova enjoys significant political support for initiating the first negotiation chapters with the European Union. Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos presented the country report for 2023-2024 today in the European Parliament plenary.
“The Commission has already sent three monitoring reports to the Member States regarding the bases in cluster 1, cluster 2, internal market and cluster 3 external relations. The Council now has all the information needed to make a decision on the first cluster concerning fundamental rights and values. We aim to open this cluster as soon as possible. We are on track to complete all bilateral monitoring meetings in September, with the ambitious goal of opening all clusters this year,” said European Commissioner for Enlargement, Marta Kos.
Although the report on the Republic of Moldova is generally favorable, it does contain some criticisms. It highlights persistent delays in judicial reform, unresolved high-level corruption cases, and concerns regarding the respect for minority rights.
“Full implementation of justice reform, anti-corruption measures, and the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms are essential. The EU’s role in these areas has become even more important due to the weakening commitments from the US. Additionally, the situation in Transnistrian region remains challenging and underscores the EU’s commitment to a peaceful and comprehensive settlement,” said MEP Sven Mikser.
In Tuesday's debate at the European Parliament plenary, several MEPs discussed the results of the constitutional referendum held on October 20, 2024, and the presidential elections on October 20 and November 3. Both events were presented as clear evidence of strong support from Moldovan citizens for integration into the European Union and for pro-European reforms.
“We can see how disinformation and manipulation campaigns have already begun before the parliamentary elections in September. Russia and its allies in Europe lost the presidential elections and the referendum on European integration and are now launching a fierce campaign for the Moldovan parliament. We must combat Russia’s hybrid warfare by all legal means,” emphasized MEP Dan Barna.
“The Russian Federation's army is illegally stationed on the territory of the Republic of Moldova. Our response must be to provide more support to strengthen Moldova's resistance against the propaganda and disinformation efforts that the Russian Federation continues to apply there,” added MEP Eugen Tomac.
“The Republic of Moldova is no longer just a neighboring country; it is part of our European family. In a challenging regional context, the Republic of Moldova has remained firmly committed to reforms and European values. The report acknowledges these developments, which must continue under a pro-European government,” emphasized MEP Victor Negrescu.
Following the debates, MEPs will adopt a political resolution, which will be voted on Wednesday, June 18.
