Conclusions of General Affairs Council: Moldova making progress on path to EU membership, next steps must continue without delay

The Republic of Moldova is advancing on the path to European Union accession, and the next steps in the integration process must continue without delay, according to the conclusions of the General Affairs Council published by the Danish EU Council Presidency. The message from Brussels is clear: Moldova is moving forward on the European path, states Deputy Prime Minister Cristina Gherasimov.

Gherasimov highlighted the milestones concerning Moldova, stressing that the European Union appreciates Moldova's continued commitment to reforms, even under very difficult conditions—war in the region, hybrid attacks, and the energy crisis.


“Moldova has quickly and successfully completed the legislative evaluation (screening). The European Commission confirms that all six clusters of chapters are ready to be opened. The EU recognizes the democratic mandate of Moldova's citizens for European integration and the state's efforts to organize fair elections, despite disinformation and external interference. The EU will continue to support Moldova in combating these threats,” Gherasimov mentioned.


The strengthening of the rule of law remains a key priority, with the EU encouraging the continuation of judicial reform, the completion of the evaluation of judges and prosecutors, strengthening judicial independence, and achieving clear results in combating corruption, including at high levels. Additionally, efforts to combat illegal financing, money laundering, and the use of modern technologies to protect electoral processes are appreciated.

The European Union also recognizes Moldova's progress in reducing energy dependencies and supports the development of energy connections to enhance regional safety and stability. Economically, the EU acknowledges important steps towards a functional market economy and supports reforms through the Moldova Growth Plan, already in deployment.

Gradual integration into the EU Internal Market is already bringing concrete benefits for citizens and the economy, such as simpler and cheaper payments through the SEPA system, reduced telephone tariffs within the Roaming like at home mechanism, and new opportunities for economic development.

Additionally, the EU reaffirms its strong support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Moldova and calls on the Russian Federation to withdraw illegally stationed troops from the Transnistrian region, reiterating the commitment for a peaceful resolution of the conflict.

In terms of foreign and security policy, Moldova is appreciated as a reliable partner, with a very high level of alignment with European Union positions and active participation in European security missions.


“Moldova is a reliable partner in foreign and security policy. The EU appreciates the very high level of alignment with European positions and Moldova's participation in European security missions. Moldova moves forward on the European path—with responsibility, reforms, and the support of our partners in the European Union,” Cristina Gherasimov also mentioned.


The Council remains committed to providing candidate states with a clear and predictable path toward EU accession, including through streamlining the process under the established methodology. In this context, it emphasizes the importance of organizing intergovernmental political conferences.

The EU General Affairs Council met on December 16 in Brussels, discussing topics such as the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028-2034, the enlargement process, the preparation of the European Council winter session, legislative programming, and the 2026 European semester.