Moldova can rely on EU's support, European Council's president says

Chisinau, 28 March /MOLDPRES/ - The European Union is in solidarity with Moldova’s citizens on this complicated period and the country can rely on the full support of the European community. European Council President Charles Michel today made statements to this effect at a news conference held jointly with President Maia Sandu.   

Charles Michel said that the getting by Moldova of the status of country candidate for accession to EU was a historical opportunity. At the same time, the official noted that the EU member states had asked the European Council to present, till next summer, a package of support for Moldova. ‘’EU is in solidarity with the people of Moldova on this complicated period. You are not alone. We have mobilized one billion euros in the last year to support Moldova, its resilience and stability. Moldova undertook considerable efforts and it is important that it continues implementing those nine steps assumed in the relation with EU, especially the reform of the judicial sector, fight against corruption and de-politicizing of the state institutions. Your country can rely on EU’s full support on this difficult period and on the way to the European family,’’ Charles Michel said.      

President Maia Sandu said that the European integration was the only way which ensured Moldova’s survival as free and prosperous country and the only chance for the Moldovans to live in peace, freedom and well-being at home. ‘’Despite all difficulties, we stay devoted to the freedom, democracy and rule of law state. We have managed to consolidate the resilience and become stronger. This achievement became possible including due to the solid support provided by EU and the member states. Presently, Moldova is country candidate for accession to EU and we are set to start the negotiations as soon as possible. To this end, we implement the European Commission’s recommendations and transpose the European legislation in an accelerated pace. We are aware that this is a complex process; yet, we assume responsibility to achieve the high standards necessary for the accession to EU. We have much work to do; we have made significant progress and we stay dedicated to achieving our goals. We will ensure, in continuation, the peace and security of our citizens. One day, not too late, we will be ready to join EU, the great European family. We are grateful for the full support on behalf of EU,’’ Maia Sandu said.       

European Council President Charles Michel is on a visit to Moldova today.