Speaker: Change of regime in Hungary removes obstacle to our European integration

The results of the elections in Hungary and the change of regime in Budapest remove a major obstacle to the accession negotiations of the Republic of Moldova to the European Union, according to Speaker Igor Grosu. Invited to a TV show, the official stressed that the disappearance of delaying arguments, previously used by some European partners, opens a window of opportunity that Chișinău is ready to seize through hard work and genuine reforms.

Final of diplomatic “excuses” and a new relationship with Budapest

Igor Grosu welcomed the decision of the Hungarian people, noting that the opposition’s victory over the Orban regime clarifies the dialogue with Brussels. According to the head of the Legislature, until now, in discussions with European partners, the idea of “waiting for the results in Hungary” before taking decisive steps in the enlargement process often loomed in the background.

“The results are good, better than we expected. That argument that had already become a disservice in our dialogue with European partners has disappeared. The matter has been settled, the Hungarian people have decided. There are no more excuses to wait, new opportunities have opened up,” Grosu pointed out.

He added that although there are old and complicated dossiers between Budapest and Kyiv, an improvement in relations is expected, which will favour the entire enlargement package.

Option for the “classic approach”: No shortcuts or tricks

Regarding the accession strategy, Igor Grosu reaffirmed that the Republic of Moldova does not rely on “simplified procedures” or political shortcuts, but on integration based strictly on merit. He drew a clear distinction between the idea of being “first accepted and then integrated” and the classic path of structural reforms.

“We are committed to the classic approach, based on results and evidence. We do not ask for and do not expect shortcuts or skipped stages. It is important that things are done correctly, even if that requires sacrifices. Europeans do not want to see just a number of laws passed, but authenticity – they want to see that the country is truly transforming,” the Speaker explained.

“You cannot fool the European partners”

The official recounted, in an informal tone, experiences from international meetings where some officials boast about ticking off conditions through simple parliamentary votes, without real implementation. Igor Grosu stressed that Chișinău rejects this “copy-paste” legislative tactic.

The Republic of Moldova submitted its application for accession to the European Union on 3 March 2022, and on 23 June 2022 it obtained candidate country status, with a recommendation to continue reforms.

In November 2023, European assessments confirmed Moldova’s progress and recommended the opening of accession negotiations, a decision approved by EU leaders in December 2023. On 25 June 2024, the accession negotiations officially began.