Slovakian president says Moldova proved it is ready to accelerate process of accession to European Union

Moldova has fulfilled a large number of conditions in the accession process and carried out numerous reforms, proving that it is ready to accelerate its integration into the European Union. President of Slovakia Peter Pellegrini today made statements to this effect, during a joint press conference with President Maia Sandu, in Bratislava.

The Slovakian president noted that this was the first official visit of a Moldova’s  head of state to Slovakia, an event that opens a new chapter in the cooperation between the two countries, based on long-standing friendship and mutual trust.

“This visit brings concrete results that will benefit the citizens of both states. I am referring to the signing of an Agreement between the Slovak Republic and  Moldova on social security. We also discussed the Moldovan-Slovak Business Forum. It will be the first joint event of this kind and I believe that new contacts between our companies will allow us to develop joint projects that will further strengthen the bilateral relations,” said Peter Pellegrini.

He also referred to the war in Ukraine and the situation in the Middle East, which have a significant impact on the economy, energy security and the provision of drinking water to the population.

“We discussed the situation in the energy sector. Moldova is facing difficulties in the supply of electricity following an attack from the territory of Ukraine. Slovakia also reacted very quickly and provided assistance to Moldova, in order to help ensure the fastest possible supply of drinking water for citizens. This package includes equipment capable of treating contaminated water and guaranteeing access to drinking water for the population,” the Slovak president said.

The official underlined that bringing Moldova closer to the European Union was very important.

“We must focus on the moment when the integration of new member states into the European Union will advance. In a situation where the EU is facing problems related to energy and global influence, I believe that one of the solutions is a new impetus through the enlargement of the Union. Moldova has fulfilled a large number of conditions in the accession process and has carried out numerous reforms, proving that it is ready to speed up the process of integration into the EU. Slovakia supports the swift opening of negotiation chapters and their progressive, positive closure. Slovak experts are helping Moldova by providing the necessary experience. Integration into the European Union is a complex process that requires significant efforts. In this respect, Slovakia can serve as a useful example. I hope we will be able to welcome you into the European Union as soon as possible,” Peter Pellegrini added.

President Maia Sandu is paying an official visit to Bratislava today, at an  invitation by her Slovak counterpart, Peter Pellegrini.

The head of state will meet with President of the National Council Richard Raši and will participate in a business forum organized on the occasion of the visit, during which opportunities for expanding economic relations between Bratislava and Chisinau will be discussed. On the sidelines of the event, cooperation agreements are to be concluded between the investment agencies and chambers of commerce of the two countries.