The European Council welcomed the reforms in our country and reaffirmed its strong support for Moldova’s European path. The Council also emphasized the importance of Moldova advancing judicial reform and intensifying efforts in the fight against corruption.
The European Council acknowledged the European Commission’s communication from October 30, 2024, on the EU enlargement policy, which included progress reports on Montenegro, Serbia, Albania, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Turkey, Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia. The Council reiterated its commitment to enlargement, describing it as a strategic investment in peace, security, stability, and prosperity.
“Enlargement improves socio-economic conditions, reduces disparities among countries, and upholds the Union’s core values. It offers significant socio-economic benefits to current and future EU members,” the conclusions stated.
Amid the ongoing war in Ukraine, the Council underscored the strategic importance of EU enlargement. “Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine highlights the urgency of enlargement as a strategic priority for the EU. The Council reaffirms its unwavering commitment to EU membership for the Western Balkans, Ukraine, and the Republic of Moldova,” the document added.
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Regarding Moldova, the European Council highlighted the results of the October 20 referendum, which demonstrated strong citizen support for the country’s European trajectory. It called on Moldova to continue its economic reforms, strengthen public administration, and advance its justice reform.
“Building on significant progress, Moldova must persist in comprehensive justice reform, including the vetting process, and intensify efforts to combat corruption by strengthening institutions and establishing a robust track record of investigations and convictions, particularly in high-level corruption cases,” the conclusions stated.
Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Cristina Gherasimov welcomed the conclusions, noting that they reflect the EU’s recognition of Moldova’s reform efforts and its commitment to supporting the country’s European integration.
“The European Union reaffirms its firm support for Moldova’s European path, recognizing progress in the rule of law, fundamental rights, and minority protections despite ongoing hybrid attacks from the Russian Federation,” Gherasimov said.
Additionally, the European Council approved a mandate for negotiations with the European Parliament on the Economic Growth Plan, which allocates up to €1.8 billion for 2025-2027. These funds will support infrastructure development, socio-economic reforms, and Moldova’s integration into the European single market.
On December 17, the European Council also adopted conclusions on enlargement for the six Western Balkan partners, Turkey, Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia, further solidifying its commitment to fostering stability and integration across the region.