EU Enlargement Package presented to European Parliament's committee; EU Commissioner for Enlargement says Moldova accelerating pace of reforms

Moldova is accelerating the pace of reforms and the European Union could issue an opinion by the end of 2026 on the country’s progress in the accession process. Statements to this effect have been made in Brussels, at an extraordinary meeting of the Committee on Foreign Affairs dedicated to the presentation of the European Union’s Enlargement Package.

“Opening four clusters represents an extraordinary achievement, but there is still much work to be done, especially regarding Moldova’s ambitious goals of concluding accession negotiations at the beginning of 2028. Moldova is accelerating the pace of its current reforms. This will require an even stronger focus on fundamental rights, as well as very clear results across all chapters. This will enable the European Union to issue an opinion on Moldova by the end of this year,” Marta Kos said.

Kos also praised the Moldovan authorities for their determination to achieve results on the path toward European integration, despite external pressures and economic and energy-related difficulties.

“The Moldovan people have made a clear choice for a European future. The government is determined to deliver results, generally with admirable resolve, and has taken very important steps on Moldova’s path toward accession, despite ongoing hybrid interference, attempts to destabilize the country and the regional shock affecting the country’s economy and energy sector,” the European Commissioner said.

Marta Kos noted that both Kyiv and Chisinau were prepared to open all negotiating clusters for accession to the European Union. The European Commissioner expressed hope that the EU Council would soon reach a consensus on opening clusters 4 and 5, which remain to be opened for both countries. She also highlighted Ukraine’s efforts to continue its reforms and European path, despite the war launched by Russia.

“There is no other country that is delivering results like this country. While bombs are falling on you, you continue to advance toward becoming a member of the European Union under the most difficult conditions. Despite Russia’s brutal war of aggression, your country stays committed to the European path and to carrying out the reforms necessary for accession to the European Union,” Marta Kos said.

The European Commission will present the European Union’s annual Enlargement Package for 2026 in Brussels on November 4. It will include an assessment of the progress made by Moldova in the accession process. The document will contain a separate report on the country, with an analysis of developments in the negotiating chapters, the level of preparedness for accession and recommendations on the reforms needed during the next 12 months.