Moldova may seek transition periods post-EU accession, Gherasimov
The Republic of Moldova may request transitional periods in certain areas after joining the European Union, particularly where implementing EU standards requires significant investments, such as in infrastructure, agriculture, or environmental protection. These details were shared by Cristina Gherasimov, the Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration, during an interview on Radio Moldova.
"It is true that we, as a country, have set ourselves a very ambitious timetable, but it is a realistic one, as our colleagues in Brussels have confirmed. However, within the next 3-4 years, while we aim to conclude negotiations and join the European Union, we cannot ensure that all necessary standards—such as air and water quality—will be fully met, as these often require a considerable amount of time to achieve," declared Gherasimov on the "La 360 de grade" program on Radio Moldova.
She explained that transitional periods would allow the country to continue aligning with European requirements even after it becomes a member state, particularly in areas where reforms cannot be completely achieved by the time of accession.
"We intend to request several transitional periods based on the complexity of the reforms we plan to implement in the coming years. Specifically, we will seek extensions for areas requiring significant financial investments, such as infrastructure, agriculture, and the environment. These transitional periods would help ensure that our business environment and economy can adequately prepare and become more competitive compared to other economies already integrated into the single European market," said the Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration.
However, these derogations will not be applicable in all areas. For example, reforming the justice system remains a critical condition for finalizing the accession negotiations and cannot be postponed.
"Justice is the core of the accession process. Without real progress in this area, we cannot discuss closing the negotiations," Gherasimov pointed out.
We remind you that last week, the Republic of Moldova commenced technical negotiations on the last three groups of chapters for its accession to the European Union: Competitiveness and Inclusive Growth, the Green Agenda and Connectivity, and Resources, Agriculture, and Cohesion. Brussels acknowledged that the authorities in Chișinău have made significant progress, as well as faced setbacks, in combating corruption and reforming the judiciary.
