VIDEO // Moldovan government welcomes European Commission's analysis on EU's preparedness for enlargement

Moldova is preparing to join the European Union, and the EU is adapting its policies and institutions to welcome new members. Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Cristina Gherasimov has made statements to this effect following the European Commission’s publication of its analysis on adapting the Union’s policies for enlargement.

The European Commission’s document examines the changes needed within the European Union in view of enlargement and addresses how decisions will be made, how the budget will be organized and how common policies will function in a Union with more member states.





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According to the government, the analysis also covers such areas as agriculture, energy, transport, security and support for regional development.

At the same time, the document proposes more opportunities for candidate countries before full EU accession, including broader access to the European market, participation in programmes and attracting investment. The analysis also provides guarantees for respect for democracy and the rule of law, as well as for the proper use of European funds.

The government of Moldova welcomes the European Commission’s proposals and considers that, for the country, a clearer roadmap toward accession, timely decision-making based on the reforms achieved, and obtaining concrete benefits for citizens and businesses are important.

“Moldova is preparing for accession, while the European Union is preparing to welcome new members,” said Cristina Gherasimov.

The deputy PM emphasized that the European Commission’s proposals would be discussed at the European level, while the specific conditions for accession would be established at the negotiations.

“We will support fair conditions and assistance tailored to the needs of our citizens, farmers, businesses, and communities,” Gherasimov said.

According to her, Moldova will continue the reforms needed to advance the accession process, including in the areas of justice, the efficiency of public institutions and the competitiveness of the economy.

“We will continue reforms for a justice system people can trust, efficient institutions and a competitive economy. Our objective remains full EU accession, with equal rights and responsibilities,” the deputy prime minister said.

On the coming period, the authorities intend to consult civil society on the proposals presented by the European Commission. The discussions will focus on identifying the implications for Moldova and the ways the country can capitalize on the opportunities offered during the preparations for accession.

Moldova on October 28 will receive a roadmap outlining the next steps toward joining the European Union. The document will be presented by the European Commission together with the EU enlargement reports and will include indicative stages, deadlines, and concrete objectives for the most advanced candidate countries. European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos made statements on the topic after a meeting of the College of the European Commission on assessments of the pre-accession policy.