Brussels proposes opening negotiations on all six clusters at once—possibly later—as a path for Moldova and Ukraine’s EU accession
There is unanimous agreement among European Union (EU) member states to support the Republic of Moldova's advancement in the enlargement process. However, this progress is currently hindered by the situation in Ukraine and Hungary's stance on the matter. Gert Jan Koopman, Director General of the EU Directorate for Enlargement and Eastern Neighborhood, made this statement on November 17 during a discussion hosted by the Center for European Policies in collaboration with the "Republic of Moldova - European Union" Club, which took place in Brussels.
The event brought together European officials and authorities from Chisinau to discuss Moldova's progress towards European integration and the challenges ahead. This took place in the context of the European Council meeting, where the first negotiation clusters for both the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine could be opened.
G. J. Koopman: "It is doubly unfair that we cannot advance with the Republic of Moldova."
Gert Jan Koopman emphasized that "nobody has any problem with the Republic of Moldova" in terms of its progress towards the next stage of its European path.
"It is very unfair that we cannot open the first negotiation cluster with Ukraine, but it is doubly unfair and contrary to the meritocratic principle that we cannot advance with the Republic of Moldova, because, in fact, everyone agrees on the situation concerning Moldova," declared the European official.
The Director General of the Directorate for Enlargement and Eastern Neighbourhood Policy also pointed out that the European Union should not allow the accession process to be “held hostage by a Member State that deviates from the conclusions of the European Council.” He stated that they are “very close” to moving forward with the first official guidelines for Chisinau and Kyiv.
He added that as reforms progress, the situation may improve for both countries simultaneously: “There will come a time when this artificial barrier will disappear. We could, theoretically, open all six clusters in one significant move, without wasting time.”
Mureșan: "The risk of the Republic of Moldova being left behind is almost zero"
Romanian MEP Siegfried Mureșan affirmed the irreversible nature of the Republic of Moldova’s path toward European integration, emphasizing the strong commitment from both Chișinău and European Union institutions.
"In the last three to four years, we have witnessed dedication on both sides — the Moldovan and European — and we can confidently say that the risk of the Republic of Moldova being left behind is nearly nonexistent," he stated.
Mureșan aimed to convey a reassuring message to the citizens of Moldova: "The European integration process for the Republic of Moldova has become nearly irreversible… do not fear that you will be left behind."
Gherasimov: “We Need You at Home”
Cristina Gherasimov, the Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration, spoke at an event about the economic opportunities emerging in the Republic of Moldova as a result of advancing reforms and closer ties with the European Union.
Gherasimov encouraged young professionals to gain international experience but emphasized the importance of returning home to contribute to the development of Moldova over the next decade.
“There will always be a natural attraction to go abroad, and that is normal. However, it is essential to bring that experience back home and help with what we are trying to build,” she stated, making a heartfelt appeal to the youth.
The Deputy Prime Minister highlighted that the present moment offers unprecedented opportunities for those willing to participate in the country’s transformation: “We need you at home for the next ten years. The greatest opportunities today are in Moldova, both in public administration and the private sector. The anticipated growth will attract significant capital into the economy, creating even more opportunities for those interested in starting a business or launching a start-up.”
Continuing reforms: The key to opening negotiations
European and Moldovan officials have emphasized that the upcoming period will be crucial for negotiations, relying on both technical and political efforts to implement reforms.
As the European Council meeting approaches, expectations remain moderate yet optimistic.
There is a general consensus that the Republic of Moldova has shown consistent and predictable progress, positioning itself well for the next steps on its path toward Europe.
