Charles Michel in Chisinau: EU to provide new support package for Moldova
European Council President Charles Michel reconfirmed the European Union's support for the Republic of Moldova, saying that in the context of the hybrid war and the destabilising situation caused by the Russian Federation, the EU bloc will support our country to face the challenges. European integration is the only way to ensure Moldova's survival as a free and prosperous country, said President Maia Sandu at a press conference with European Council President Charles Michel, who is on an official visit to Chisinau.
"The Republic of Moldova is a candidate country for EU membership and this is a historic opportunity for your country. Russia continues to attack the free people of Ukraine and you are exposed to a huge impact from this war. Russia continues to try to destabilise Moldova using various methods: cyber attacks and staged protests. So far, you have responded to these with strength," Michel said.
The EU official said that the EU has granted €1 billion to our country to deal with the crises it is facing, especially in the energy sector. According to Charles Michel, the EU is expected to offer a new support package to Moldova by summer.
"The European Union stands in total solidarity with the people of the Republic of Moldova and you are indeed not alone in this complicated period. Over the past year we have mobilised over €1 billion to support the Republic of Moldova and strengthen the country's resilience, showing that we are there for you by taking action. We are ready to do even more and at our last meeting - the leaders of the 27 states decided to provide even more support and asked the European Commission to present a support package by summer", said Charles Michel.
The European official also said that it is very important for Moldova to implement the nine steps recommended by the European Commission, especially those related to justice reform and the fight against corruption.
President Maia Sandu stressed that it is now important to face up to hybrid attacks, with the authorities managing to strengthen the country's resilience thanks to the aid provided by the EU. The head of state also said that the Republic of Moldova aims to open accession negotiations with the EU as soon as possible.
"Today, Moldova is a candidate country for EU membership and we intend to open negotiations as soon as possible. To this end, we are implementing the European Commission's recommendations and transposing European legislation at an accelerated pace," Maia Sandu said.
Maia Sandu and Charles Michel also discussed the organisation of the European Political Community summit scheduled for 1 June in Chisinau. The summit is an important event that will bring support and security to the European continent. Charles Michel said that he hopes to attend the June 1 summit to be held in Chisinau.
"We want the summit to focus on peace and security issues; energy resilience and climate action; and interconnections in Europe for a better connected and more stable continent. For Moldova, the organisation of the European Political Community Summit is a proof of our strong commitment to the European family, but also a strong diplomatic support that we enjoy at a difficult time. It is a clear message that we are not alone and that we have partners and friends - numerous and powerful", the head of state added.
