European Council President says European Union to support Moldova every step of way towards EU accession

European Council President António Costa has praised the progress made by Moldova on its path to European integration and congratulated the Moldovan authorities on the opening of negotiations on the first group of accession chapters. He described this step as a “historic milestone” in the relationship between Moldova and the European Union.

The EU official today made statements to this effect in Brussels, at the press conference held after the second Moldova – European Union Summit.

“This summit could not have been organized at a more appropriate moment, just one week after Moldova reached a historic milestone on its road to the European Union – the opening of the first group of negotiation chapters,” António Costa said.

The European official congratulated President Maia Sandu for her role in advancing the process of European integration, stressing that the leadership, courage and determination she had shown contributed to these results.

“You have demonstrated great courage and determination on the path of Moldova’s accession to the European Union. The Moldovan people have chosen Europe and your determination and commitment are bearing fruit,” the President of the European Council said.

António Costa highlighted the rapid pace of reforms and progress achieved by Moldova since getting the candidate country status, noting that these developments are “truly impressive.”

“The Council’s decision to open negotiations on the first group of chapters reflects the member states’ recognition of Moldova’s progress, as well as our commitment to integrating a strong Moldova into the European family,” the official underlined.

The President of the European Council assured that the European Union would continue to support Moldova at every stage of the accession process.

“We will help you and support you at every step you take,” António Costa said.

During the summit, the leaders discussed deepening cooperation in such areas as education, infrastructure, investment and security. According to António Costa, young Moldovans will benefit from increased opportunities through closer association with the Erasmus+ programme, investments in schools and the development of rail connections.

At the same time, the European official highlighted the results of cooperation in combating hybrid threats and strengthening state institutions. He praised the work of the European Union Partnership Mission in Moldova, which helps protect institutions against external interference and serves as a model for other similar European initiatives.

In conclusion, António Costa reiterated the European Union’s commitment to continue close cooperation with Moldova.

“The European Union is determined to continue to work with Moldova for the benefit of our democracies, our economies and our citizens,” the President of the European Council concluded.

The second Moldova – European Union Summit took place in Brussels today. The event brought together the leadership of the European institutions and the Moldovan authorities, in order to assess the progress made on the European agenda and to set the priorities for the next stage of the accession negotiations.