Deputy PM says screening proves Moldova can deliver European results

Moldova has successfully completed the screening exercise, a crucial step in the process of joining the European Union, proving that it can achieve concrete and rapid results, even under difficult conditions. Acting Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Cristina Gherasimov made statements to this effect at a television programme at a private TV station.

"The screening exercise was unprecedented for our country. In just 15 months, we made an extraordinary effort, both on behalf of Moldova’s government and the entire society. Many wondered if we would succeed, but today we can proudly say yes—we have proved that we can deliver European results with very few resources and under stress conditions,” said Gherasimov.

The deputy PM emphasized that this complex technical process, which involves comparing national legislation with the European Union’s one, was a real test of institutional cooperation and resilience.

"During the screening, we checked the compatibility of our legislation with the European one, domain by domain, article by article. It was a laborious process, but it showed us that we can work as a strong team here at home. It is one of the most important lessons we have learned: we can build effective and dedicated teams, appreciated for their professionalism," Gherasimov said.

A concrete result of this process is the National Accession Programme, a strategic document that sets the reform directions for the next five years.

"Following the screening exercise, we developed the National Accession Programme—a tangible and nationally important result. This programme shows us exactly where we are advanced, where we have recorded less progress, and, most importantly, what we need to do next. The document was adopted by the government in May and will be updated annually at the end of each year, in order to make sure that we keep pace with European standards," the deputy prime minister explained.

According to Cristina Gherasimov, one of the most complex areas targeted by the accession process is justice, considered the cornerstone of the cluster dedicated to European fundamental values.

"Justice reform is fundamental; we are not just talking about fighting corruption, but about a change in mentality. Justice must understand that nothing is given or taken. We must internalize a culture of integrity and responsibility. We already see judges and prosecutors with integrity, who have passed integrity checks, but this process must be completed," the official emphasized.

The deputy prime minister added that Brussels evaluated Moldova's progress based on clear and objective criteria related to decisions, verdicts and measurable results.

"Our friends in Brussels rely on facts and figures. They want to see that our justice system is independent, accountable and objective. We must show that the courts work correctly, decisions are made without political influence and the cases proceed transparently. Only in this way can we demonstrate that the justice reform is real and irreversible," said Gherasimov.

She also said that, without progress in this field, accession negotiations cannot advance.

"If we fail to prove clear progress in justice reform, we will not be able to move forward with other chapters. Justice is the key that opens all other doors to accession," added the deputy PM.

Gherasimov also spoke about the financial challenges involved in the process of getting closer to the European Union.

"Such fields as transport, environment and agriculture will require very large investments. We have the Economic Growth Plan, which allows us to use special funds dedicated to these costly reforms. Some of the resources will go into the economy to stimulate growth, while another part will be directed towards implementing European standards in these sectors," Gherasimov said.

The deputy prime minister stressed that success does not depend only on funding, but also on people prepared to manage the reforms.

"We want clean waters, healthy soils and the highest quality food products. For this, we need not only money, but also well-trained experts. Many of the specialists we need have gone abroad or have never existed in the system. That is why, we will work together with the Education Ministry, in order to raise a new generation of professionals to support Moldova's European transformation," concluded Cristina Gherasimov.