Moldova strengthens European path: Discussions in Brussels with Lithuanian officials

The progress made by Moldova on the European integration agenda, current economic and security challenges, as well as the concrete steps to be undertaken to bring Europe closer to Moldovan citizens were discussed in Brussels by Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Cristina Gherasimov and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania Sigitas Mitkus.

During the meeting, the officials exchanged views on the dynamics of the reforms assumed by Chișinău in the context of the EU accession process, as well as on the political and technical support provided by Lithuania.


"I thanked the authorities in Vilnius for supporting Moldova's European path and standing by us in this process," said Gherasimov.


On March 27, in Vilnius, during the bilateral political consultations between the foreign ministries of Lithuania and Moldova, Julius Pranevičius emphasized the political and technical support for Moldova's accession negotiations.


"Lithuania has supported and will continue to assist Moldova every step of the way towards the EU. We still remember how much effort the EU accession process requires. We welcome Moldova's smooth progress in the accession negotiations and we are ready to assist the country even more," Pranevičius emphasized.


On June 23, 2022, in the context of the outbreak of the war in Ukraine and the new security configuration in Eastern Europe, the European Council granted Moldova candidate status for EU accession, alongside Ukraine. The decision marked a turning point in Chișinău-Brussels relationship, confirming European support for Moldova's pro-European aspirations.

In November 2023, the European Commission published its annual enlargement report, in which it recommended starting accession negotiations with Moldova. The document highlighted the progress made by the Moldovan authorities in the judicial reform, fighting corruption, strengthening good governance, and aligning national legislation with EU standards and policies.

In December 2024, the European Council officially approved the start of accession negotiations with Moldova. The decision was described by leaders in Chișinău as a historic moment and a new concrete step towards full integration into the European family.

Currently, Moldova is going through the technical stage of the accession process, known as the acquis screening - a detailed evaluation of national legislation in relation to European legislation. This stage is essential for the preparation of opening the negotiation chapters, which will cover key areas such as justice, economy, public administration, agriculture, and environment.