Moldova: EU frontrunner, fast-tracking accession
The Republic of Moldova is "on the right track" in its European Union (EU) accession process, and it could become a member sooner than other candidate states if it maintains its reform momentum, asserts Victor Negrescu, Vice-President of the European Parliament (EP).
In an interview with Moldova 1, the official highlighted broad support from European institutions, including backing for pre-accession fund allocation, and the readiness to launch the European Parliament's Office in Chișinău this autumn.
"This resolution states very clearly: the Republic of Moldova is on the right track towards European Union accession and enjoys our full support. You saw the large majority that backed this resolution. At the same time, I took the opportunity to mention two immediate priorities for the Republic of Moldova during my intervention in the EP. I requested that the EU, when considering its long-term budget, include pre-accession funds through budget amendments. And a second thing I strongly advocate for: 'roaming like at home,' without those additional telephony or internet costs," stated the MEP on the "ÎN CONTEXT" show.
Moldova could join the EU faster than other states
Victor Negrescu added that the Republic of Moldova is a "frontrunner" among countries that recently started accession negotiations and could complete the process faster than other states, based on its own efforts.
"Today, the Republic of Moldova is a frontrunner among the states that recently began EU accession negotiations, a fact confirmed by both the EP and European Commissioner Marta Kos. As Vice-President of the EP responsible for relations with the Republic of Moldova, I can confirm this. The Republic of Moldova is increasingly closer to the EU, and in this sense, it has the best chance for EU accession. We are not talking about 'decoupling,' but rather an individual path adapted to the efforts each state makes. And if the Republic of Moldova progresses faster through the accession negotiations, it could very easily join the EU sooner than other states. Historically, there have been states that progressed independently because they fulfilled their obligations more rapidly than others. It would be normal for the Republic of Moldova, if it fulfills all negotiation chapters, to have the chance for accession on its own merit," the European official pointed out.
The EU guarantees citizen safety
The Europarliamentarian further explained on the same show that while EU membership does not automatically imply NATO integration, citizen safety remains a priority for the bloc.
"When you join the EU, you enter a club of states that share common values and principles. And it's clear that the EU protects its members. We haven't been in such a situation before, but our interest is to ensure that member states develop, and that their citizens live in safety and security. Within the EU, we already have a neutral state – Austria. So, it wouldn't be something new for a neutral state to be part of the EU. But Austria also benefits from logistical, technical, and security and defense personnel support in combating foreign interference. And it is clear that if the Republic of Moldova becomes part of the EU, it will benefit from this entire arsenal of technical support," the EP Vice-President continued.
The Transnistrian region: A complex issue, but not an obstacle to integration
Regarding the Transnistrian conflict, the Romanian MEP stated that Brussels would not make decisions on behalf of Chișinău.
"We view the Republic of Moldova as a whole, and it will be up to Chișinău to adopt the best solution regarding the Transnistrian region. We have a precedent – the case of Cyprus, where there's also a part of the territory that considers itself independent and a significant Turkish community living there. So, it wouldn't be a problem for the EU to welcome the Republic of Moldova within its borders, even with this frozen conflict and extremely complex situation related to this Transnistrian area," Negrescu explained.
Protecting minorities and combating disinformation
Victor Negrescu assured that all minorities would be protected within the EU, emphasizing the EP's support in combating disinformation and external interferences.
"Both the majority population, who speak Romanian, and the minorities in the Republic of Moldova will be protected by common European values. Consequently, this protection also involves combating foreign interference. Currently, at Chișinău's request, the EU provides direct support to your authorities to combat these foreign interferences. I must commend you – you have exceptional experts. I'm always proud of the IT specialists from the Republic of Moldova. That's why Romania invests heavily there; we even have things to learn from Moldova in this regard," the MEP stated.
European Parliament Office in Chișinău to be operational from September
A concrete step in strengthening the Republic of Moldova-EU relationship is the opening of the European Parliament Office in Chișinău, which is expected to become functional in September. This office will support Moldovan authorities in transposing European legislation and communicating EU policies to citizens.
"We want to offer technical support for transposing European legislation, including in terms of communication. For instance, we aim to explain to farmers why certain decisions that might seem difficult are in their interest so they can become competitive on the European market. Certain measures that protect consumers are necessary, and we will explain how these will help both citizens and companies in the Republic of Moldova. We also want to make this effort by discussing with your parliamentarians, showing them the easiest, fastest, and best way for the Republic of Moldova to transpose European laws," concluded the EP Vice-President.
Contextual Information
It is worth noting that yesterday, in Strasbourg, MEPs approved the European Commission's report on the Republic of Moldova's progress in its European path with 456 votes in favor, 118 against, and 51 abstentions. The EP welcomed "the Republic of Moldova's exemplary commitment to making progress towards EU accession."
According to experts, the report is favorable but highlights the need to accelerate justice reform, intensify the fight against corruption, and address concerns related to the respect for minority rights.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
