MEP: Moldova may be assessed separately for EU accession – "A stellar moment"
Currently, there is no favorable political context for bloc accessions to the European Union (EU). However, the Republic of Moldova is viewed as a leader in the enlargement process and could be evaluated separately based on its progress, according to MEP Dan Barna. In an interview with Radio Moldova, Barna stated that the efforts of the current government in Chisinau are being recognized in Brussels. He emphasized that "this is a stellar moment for the Republic of Moldova, and Europe has its doors open."
When asked whether the Republic of Moldova could join the EU before other Eastern Partnership countries, Dan Barna replied, "Categorically, yes!"
"I have no doubt about this. In fact, several members of the European Parliament also stated this. The Republic of Moldova is clearly more advanced than other states on the same European path in several ways. This recognition comes from European institutions. It is now a matter of finding the correct procedural mechanism," the official explained.
In Barna's view, the current geopolitical context, particularly the war in Ukraine, presents the Republic of Moldova with a "window of opportunity."
"In this complicated geopolitical landscape—the war in Ukraine and the reality we face—the situation of the Republic of Moldova must be seen as an extraordinary window of opportunity, a wide-open door. Therefore, the message I have continuously conveyed to the authorities in Chișinău is to seize every moment to make the necessary preparations for the Republic of Moldova's rapprochement with the European Union," the Romanian MEP pointed out.
He also emphasized that the EU's enlargement process no longer operates on the principle of state blocs but instead proceeds individually, based on the merits of each country.
"There is no longer a political context for bloc accessions. At the European level, accession prospects are approached individually. Each state will become a member of the European Union based on its own performance and level of preparedness, as situations differ significantly from one country to another. Both Marta Kos and Kaja Kallas have clearly stated that the process will be based on meritocracy and the readiness of each state," mentioned the quoted source.
In this context, the parliamentary elections on September 28 will be a critical moment for the country's geopolitical orientation. It is essential for the Republic of Moldova, along with its citizens—not just the government—to demonstrate a commitment to integration into the European Union.
Barna also warned of the risk of a pro-Eastern government taking power in Chișinău, which could derail the country's European trajectory.
"It is a clear battle, a real hybrid battlefield. What will be Europe's position if a pro-Eastern, pro-Russian, pro-Putin government takes office in Chișinău? Every vote truly counts, especially given that the disinformation promoted by Russia continues to influence public opinion. Every vote can make the difference between a Moldova that embraces Europe with an open heart and full support or a Moldova lost in the Siberian fog," explained Dan Barna on Radio Moldova.
The MEP also discussed the intensification of hybrid attacks, particularly in the lead-up to the elections, which have been condemned by the EU.
"There is constant and ongoing evidence of hybrid attacks, especially regarding the disinformation targeting citizens. Resources and expertise are being allocated to identify and counter these narratives, which aim to destabilize the free, democratic, and independent choices of Moldovan citizens," concluded Dan Barna, Member of the European Parliament.
