Political analysts say Chisinau Summit shows Moldova treated as equal partner in Europe

The first high-level bilateral summit with the European Union is seen by analysts as a reaffirmation of European support and evidence of the maturation of the relationship between Chisinau and Brussels. Experts say that the meeting in Chisinau shows a fundamental change in Brussels' perception of Moldova and will be accompanied by significant announcements.

An Equal Dialogue between Moldova and the EU

'’July 4 marks a new stage in the relationship between the European Union and Moldova,’’ says Romanian analyst Mihai Isac, who highlights the political and symbolic significance of this moment.

“This is a reaffirmation of European support for Moldova and, at the same time, proof of how the European Union treats allies and partner states as equals. The summit in Chisinau is a summit between equals – between a community bloc comprising dozens of states and Moldova, a state aiming to become a full member with rights and obligations within the EU.’’



Expectations: New Funds, Technical Dialogue, Political Commitments

Mihai Isac estimates that the meeting will be accompanied by significant announcements regarding financial and political support for Moldova:

‘’Certainly, Moldova will receive new budget allocations from the European Union. Announcements are expected regarding how the EU will continue to support Moldova in this extremely difficult electoral year.’’

He emphasizes the importance of technical dialogue, often invisible to the public, but essential in the accession process:

‘’Even if this summit may not have the political glamour we are accustomed to, the technical process unfolding in parallel is the real basis on which Moldova will join the European Union. At this time, there is no negative position expressed by any member state regarding the opening of accession negotiations.’’





Direct Relations with European Capitals: A Necessary Strategic Step

Mihai Isac draws the attention of the Moldovan authorities to the importance of direct bilateral diplomacy:

‘’Moldova needs to make its necessities known by going directly to European capitals. A good deal of the decisions regarding Moldova's European future will have to be sealed by member states. We need to think about a mechanism to strengthen these bilateral relations.’’

In his opinion, Moldova should capitalize on these diplomatic opportunities, in order to promote its economic and tourism potential:

‘’The summit provides an opportunity not only for political dialogue, but also to attract investments, to showcase Moldova's tourism potential and to better understand the economic, legal and political architecture of the European Union that we want to integrate into.’’

Iulian Groza: ‘’Moldova is Already an Active Presence on the European Agenda’’

For his part, Iulian Groza, executive director of the Institute for European Policies and Reforms (IPRE), says that the summit reflects a fundamental change in Brussels' perception of Moldova:

‘’This meeting confirms that our relationship with the European Union has reached a new level. Moldova is seen not only as a neighboring or partner country, but as a country that is seriously preparing to become a member of the European Union.’’

Groza also highlighted the concrete efforts made in recent years for Moldova's integration into EU mechanisms:

‘’Efforts have been made for a free roaming regime and for Moldova to join the EU's single payment area. These are two very important issues for citizens. Also, support for the security and territorial integrity of Moldova has been constantly  reaffirmed by the European Union.’’

A Summit Confirming the Positioning of Moldova in the European Family

The summit in Chisinau follows a string of accelerated diplomatic developments that have transformed Moldova into an increasingly visible player on the European stage.

‘’Moldova is already a regular stop on the European diplomatic circuit. There isn't a month without high-level visits to Chisinau or official delegations to Brussels. July 4 comes just to confirm this reality,’’ Mihai Isac emphasized.

The meeting on July 4 is, therefore, more than a festive event: it is the expression of political maturation, a common strategic commitment and a path that, with strong support from European partners, could transform Moldova into a member state of the European Union in the coming years.

European leaders are expected today in Chisinau for the first bilateral Moldova – European Union Summit. The event is organized under the auspices of President Maia Sandu. Moldova will be represented by President Maia Sandu, Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu and Prime Minister Dorin Recean. President of the European Council António Costa and the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen will attend on behalf of the EU.