For the first time in history, we have a real, tangible chance to become an EU member State. President Maia Sandu delivered this message at the opening of the European Integration Forum held today in Chisinau.
The head of state highlighted that Moldova is entering a new chapter in its history, with EU accession now enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic of Moldova.
“Despite anti-EU propaganda and the Kremlin’s attempts to derail us, Moldovans have shown the world that European values are our values, too. For the first time in Moldova’s history, citizens decided on a constitutional referendum, and that choice now forms part of our supreme law. And this is not just any decision—it determines the future of our country and our children. It shows where we want to go and how much we are willing to work to get there,” said Maia Sandu.
She emphasized that the European Union recognizes Moldova’s progress. State institutions excelled in the screening process, with the European Commission’s Enlargement Report noting progress in 31 out of 33 chapters, including significant advancements in eight chapters and improved readiness in five.
“In the past two years, our pace has surpassed that of other candidate countries despite starting from a modest base. We submitted our application for EU membership, achieved candidate status, convinced member states to vote to open negotiations, initiated those negotiations, and advanced through the screening process. We secured an investment plan worth €1.8 billion from the EU and earned the respect and trust of the 27 member states and EU institutions. The next step is to open negotiations on the first group of chapters this spring,” Maia Sandu stated.
She noted that Moldova’s priorities in the coming years will focus on three key areas: justice, the economy, and security.
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“These efforts will help us face regional challenges, guarantee peace, and safeguard the independence and sovereignty of our country. For us, EU integration is likely the only way to preserve and strengthen our democracy. For the first time in history, we have a real, tangible chance to become an EU member state—and achieving this depends on our unity and ability to mobilize around this clear goal,” Sandu remarked.
“We are in a race against time. The window of opportunity will close at some point, and external interference is growing—Moscow’s desire to turn Moldova into a gray zone or a governorate is strong. If we don’t act now, in 10 years, we will still be here, discussing EU integration. Let’s act wisely, responsibly, and with love for our country,” she urged.
Vice Prime Minister for European Integration Cristina Gherasimov spoke about the bilateral screening stages, noting that the government is intensively preparing for Cluster 2, which covers nine chapters related to the internal market, economy, and competitiveness.
“We are working hard to excel in this process. Citizens understand the effort ahead of us. We must embrace the transformations in the coming years. EU institutions and member states are open to us. It is our responsibility to seize this window of opportunity,” Gherasimov stated.
EU Ambassador to Chișinău, Janis Mazeiks, acknowledged Moldova’s progress across most chapters.
“At this stage, we need stable changes rather than rapid ones. Daily hard work in various fields is essential. The country has taken significant steps in judicial reform and anti-corruption. But Moldova needs more time to complete the process. Prioritizing institutional strengthening and efficient collaboration between institutions is key,” he emphasized.
Julian Groza, Executive Director of the Institute for European Policies and Reforms, highlighted that Moldova has actively pursued advanced EU integration for a decade.
“The ability to reform and progress in EU accession is closely linked to justice reform, as fighting corruption is central to these negotiations. Moldova is already economically integrated into the EU, which motivates and provides development opportunities. Despite geopolitical tensions, Moldova is not alone—we have partners supporting our European journey. These partners must see our institutions rising to the challenges and delivering on reforms,” Groza said.
He also highlighted the importance of the constitutional referendum on EU accession.
“The referendum results represent a clear vision of the country’s direction. The revised Constitution has become a strong tool for citizens, aiming for EU integration by 2030. However, next year’s parliamentary elections are critical. It is important to elect pro-European parties to work with politicians in achieving this monumental goal,” Groza added.
The European Integration Forum, now in its 10th edition, brings experts and key stakeholders to discuss Moldova’s path to EU integration.