Moldovan deputy PM explains European integration process: deep transformations ahead

Moldova is preparing to join the European Union in the next three to four years, and this process entails a deep transformation of the country, so that the living standards and national legislation comply with European standards. At the request of MOLDPRES, Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Cristina Gherasimov detailed the steps and challenges of the accession process at show, 'Pe față' (Openly) at the Moldova 1 TV station.

‘’First of all, the national legislation will have an additional layer of European legislation. So, we are going to integrate the European legislation into our national legislation, just like any other member state,’’ said Gherasimov.

She emphasized that the European standards enjoyed by Moldovans in other states should be applied at home as well: 'Whether we are talking about waste recycling or clean rivers, these rules must be transposed and observed in Moldova.’’
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The deputy prime minister noted that the EU legislation’s volume was divided into 33 topic-related chapters, structured into six groups - the so-called 'clusters' - and Moldova will open negotiations on each group separately.

‘’We will open accession negotiations six times, one cluster at a time. Closing each chapter will mark the country’s effective readiness for accession,’’ said Gherasimov.

To concretely illustrate this effort, she provided the example of standards convergence: ‘’When Moldova applies the same rules as the member states' citizens, it will be considered ready to join.’’

The deputy PM highlighted the importance of this unitary and coordinated process:

‘’There are clear rules of the game in the European Union. For this family to work and have a single voice internationally, all states - members and candidates - must follow the same rules.’’

Cristina Gherasimov also said that the upcoming period was decisive for the country:

‘’The next 3-4 years will be marked by deep transformations. After last autumn's referendum, it's time to implement the choice made by citizens. We need to strengthen our institutions, prepare the economy and work together. We no longer have time for internal conflicts.’’

According to her, Moldova is no longer discussing ‘’if,’’ but ’’when and how’’ it will join the European Union.

‘’The European Union is a family. And we want to be part of this European family,’’ concluded the deputy prime minister.

Moldova submitted its application for accession to the European Union in March 2022, shortly after the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. In June 2022, the European Council gave Moldova candidate country status, and in December 2023, it approved the opening of the accession negotiations.

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