PM says Moldova in race against time to conclude EU accession negotiations by 2028

Moldova is in a race against time to conclude its accession negotiations with the European Union by 2028, while the next stage will require considerable efforts to implement reforms and align institutions with European standards. Prime Minister Vasile Tofan has made statements to this effect, as 17 new negotiation chapters with the EU were opened today in Luxembourg.

“We have a lot to do in a short time, but today we are taking an important step: we are opening 17 new negotiation chapters with the EU, in the ‘Internal Market’ and ‘Competitiveness’ clusters. This brings us to 24 of the 33 chapters,” the prime minister said.

According to Vasile Tofan, the two clusters cover areas that can bring concrete benefits to citizens and the business community, such as employment opportunities in the European Union, the recognition of diplomas and qualifications, protection of pension rights for people who have worked in more countries, investments in industry and research, safer financial services and easier access for Moldovan companies to the European market.

The PM emphasized that opening the negotiation chapters had been a difficult stage, but the next period would be even more demanding, as it will involve reforms, legislative amendments and the strengthening of institutions, so that they operate in line with European standards.

“However, our determination to join the EU is stronger than the obstacles ahead of us. We want citizens and entrepreneurs of Moldova to enjoy the same rights and opportunities as in any member state,” Vasile Tofan said.

The prime minister thanked everyone involved in the European integration process and reiterated the authorities’ commitment to continuing Moldova’s path toward the European Union.

“Moldova is getting ever closer to joining the European Union!” President Maia Sandu said today. The head of state praised the work of civil servants in preparing Moldova for accession.

The fourth Intergovernmental Conference between Moldova and the European Union dedicated to accession negotiations is taking place in Luxembourg today.

The European Union must prepare to welcome new members, as candidate countries advance in the accession process, European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos said ahead of the intergovernmental meetings in Luxembourg. She stressed that enlargement required both candidate countries to fulfill their commitments and the Union to prepare to operate effectively after their accession.