The European Union has allocated more than 1.2 billion euros to support the Republic of Moldova since October 2021, providing critical assistance in overcoming the country’s energy crisis and economic and security challenges. This significant financial aid, comprising grants and favorable loans, has been directed towards addressing the most pressing needs of Moldova and its citizens, including stabilizing the country’s macro-finance, supporting those affected by rising energy prices, enhancing security amidst war-induced threats, and investing in modernization, infrastructure, and transitioning to a greener economy.
Siegfried Mureșan, a Member of the European Parliament, emphasized that over the past year, supporting Moldova has become a top priority for EU institutions. Even EU member states that were previously more reserved on this matter have now recognized the crucial role of the Republic of Moldova in ensuring the stability and security of the entire European Union. The increased openness is a result of the regional situation stemming from the war in Ukraine, as well as the pro-European majority in Chișinău’s politics and leadership, which has garnered the trust of European partners through its dedicated efforts, the European Parliamentarian explained.
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The aggression unleashed by Russia in Ukraine has had a profound impact on Moldova. Overnight, authorities and citizens had to manage the crisis of Ukrainian refugees seeking shelter. Furthermore, security risks have escalated, with attempts from Russia to destabilize the situation in Moldova intensifying. The conflict in Ukraine has also affected Moldova’s international trade, as agricultural producers faced difficulties exporting goods through Ukraine. Despite these challenges, Moldova has made impressive progress in the past two years in implementing the necessary reforms for European integration, including modernizing the justice system, public administration, anti-corruption efforts, and measures to safeguard human rights.
As the EU moves forward, Siegfried Mureșan highlighted the importance of continuing and accelerating support for Moldova in 2024. The Republic of Moldova has demonstrated that it deserves a clear perspective on the initiation of accession negotiations with the European Union. The European Parliament has repeatedly called for the commencement of accession negotiations with Moldova by 2024, following the fulfillment of the nine reform recommendations issued by the European Commission. Additionally, the EU must continue to aid Moldova with European funds.
On June 23, 2022, the European Council responded to Moldova’s request for EU membership, submitted on March 3 of the same year, by granting the country candidate status based on the European Commission’s recommendation. The Commission’s recommendation also came with a set of nine reform requirements that the authorities in Chișinău must fulfill before the accession negotiations with the EU can begin.