Moldovan PM, European commissioners discuss energy, security, economic reforms to accelerate Moldova’s European path

The advancement of Moldova’s preparations for joining the European Union and expanding cooperation in essential areas for the country’s integration have been discussed by Prime Minister Vasile Tofan at meetings with three members of the European Commission: Dan Jørgensen, European Commissioner for Energy and Housing; Magnus Brunner, European Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration; and Maria Luís Albuquerque, European Commissioner for Financial Services and the Savings and Investments Union.

During the discussion with Dan Jørgensen, European Commissioner for Energy and Housing, the focus was on strengthening Moldova’s energy security and on measures needed to reduce the impact of high energy prices on citizens. The Moldovan PM referred to the compensation programme prepared by the government, in order to support vulnerable families amid rising gas costs. In view of the severe drought this season, the discussions also addressed water supply security.

Prime Minister Vasile Tofan emphasized that Moldova would continue reforms, in order to build a more resilient energy system, while advancing the accession process and pursuing the objective of completing technical negotiations by 2028.

Vasile Tofan and Magnus Brunner, European Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, discussed cooperation with the European Union in the field of internal affairs and security, the reforms needed in these sectors, as well as the partnership for securing the common border and the entire region. The PM highlighted Moldova’s contribution to regional security, noting that the country is not only a beneficiary of European solidarity, but also a partner that actively contributes to Europe’s security.

At the meeting with Maria Luís Albuquerque, European Commissioner for Financial Services and the Savings and Investments Union, discussions focused on Moldova’s economic reforms, fiscal policy and the measures needed to bring the financial sector closer to European Union standards.

The Moldovan prime minister presented the government’s priorities regarding the reduction of the budget deficit and economic prospects, tax reform aimed at stimulating employment and investment, as well as the restructuring of state-owned enterprises to increase their efficiency and profitability. The sides also discussed the government’s commitment to improving the efficiency of state resource management. In the context of the accession process, the alignment of Moldova’s banking sector with the European Union acquis in the field of financial services was also addressed.

“In energy, security or the economy, we have the same approach: we are carrying out reforms that must make a difference in people’s lives, while preparing Moldova for accession to the European Union. We want more secure energy and lower costs for citizens, institutions capable of protecting the country and an economy that encourages employment and investment. This is our path to the EU,” said Prime Minister Vasile Tofan.

The meetings took place in Brussels, on the margins of the 10th meeting of Moldova–European Union Association Council, during which the country’s progress in the accession process, the implementation of reforms, economic and sectoral cooperation and the security dialogue were assessed. Following the fulfillment of 18 commitments under the Reform Agenda, a new installment of 157 million euros from the EU Growth Plan was announced for Moldova. The money is meant to support the continuation of reforms and investments in areas essential to the country’s development and the improvement of citizens’ lives.