EC President Expresses Support for Moldova’s European Aspiration During Meeting with PM Recean

“We support the Republic of Moldova’s ambition to firmly move towards the family of European countries.” This statement was made by the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, during a meeting with Prime Minister Dorin Recean on October 12. The progress made by the Republic of Moldova in implementing the European agenda, the government’s key priorities, and the financial support provided by the European Commission for the country’s economic development were the main topics discussed, according to the Executive.

Prime Minister Dorin Recean reiterated the government’s priorities, with a particular focus on supporting economic development through infrastructure projects, including bridge construction and repair, road improvements, and railway development.

“Our priorities are clear – ensuring state order and security, judicial reform, fighting corruption, and strengthening the energy sector. Our goal remains European integration, and support for infrastructure projects, such as bridge repairs, road improvements, and railway development, is crucial for achieving our national objective of a European Moldova,” stated the head of the government.

The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, reaffirmed the European Commission’s support for the reforms initiated by the authorities and praised the Republic of Moldova’s commitment to achieving its European objective.

“It is impressive to see the resilience and determination with which the Republic of Moldova is moving towards the European Union. The results are visible here,” stated the European official.

Discussions also revolved around the European Commission’s proposal to increase financial support for Moldova in the context of the EU Multiannual Financial Framework for the 2021-2027 review and the increase in financial assistance for enhancing the country’s energy security.

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During the visit of the European Commission President, Minister of Economic Development and Digitalization, Dumitru Alaiba, and the Director-General of the Directorate-General for Neighborhood and Enlargement Negotiations, Gert Jan Koopman, signed an amendment that provides for the disbursement of €105 million by the end of this year for the Energy Vulnerability Reduction Fund.

Furthermore, during the meeting with the Moldovan President, Maia Sandu, the President of the European Commission mentioned that in early November, the Commission will present its report on the assessment of the progress made by the Republic of Moldova. In this regard, authorities in Chisinau were urged to continue actively participating in this process.

“At the beginning of November, the Commission will present its annual report on EU enlargement and the evaluation of the progress made by the Republic of Moldova as a candidate country. Subsequently, this evaluation will be discussed at the European Council Summit in December. These discussions will have a direct impact on your future,” said Von Der Leyen.

Following Moscow’s large-scale invasion of Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova applied for EU membership in March 2022 and was granted candidate country status in June 2022.

In April 2023, the European Parliament called for EU accession negotiations with this country to start by the end of 2023 if Moldova meets the nine stages identified by the European Commission as necessary for negotiations to begin.

President of the European Council, Charles Michel, stated on August 28, during a forum held in the Slovenian resort of Bled, that the European Union must be prepared to admit new member states by 2030.”