Moldova's EU accession progress increased fourfold in one year
The pace of the Republic of Moldova on its European Union accession path has increased fourfold in a single year.
EU integration is no longer just a light at the end of the tunnel, but a tangible reality we are moving towards with determined steps.
The statement was made by Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu at the opening of the conference "Enlargement Report 2025: Progress and Future Priorities of the Republic of Moldova," held on Tuesday, November 11, in Chișinău.
Alexandru Munteanu stated he was delighted that, in his first public speech as Prime Minister, he could discuss the progress of the Republic of Moldova, which has been noticed both domestically and abroad. According to the Prime Minister, the country has entered "a new stage of hope, with a future for all of us, the citizens of the country, and especially for our children and grandchildren."
"The words of praise are well-deserved and place an even greater burden on our shoulders – the responsibility for tomorrow – because we still have much to do. The European Commission's conclusion is clear: our country has recorded the biggest leap in the level of preparedness for EU accession," Prime Minister Munteanu emphasized.
He noted progress across all dimensions – from the rule of law and the economy, to energy, digitalization, education, food safety, and social policies. The head of the Cabinet of Ministers acknowledged that the road is not easy. Despite the challenges and attempts at foreign interference, state institutions have met them with dignity.
Reforms advance in stalled areas
"We navigated the crises with resilience. We ensured stability and organized fair elections. We strengthened state institutions and advanced reforms in areas where progress was stalled for years: justice, economy, energy, and infrastructure.
Citizens are now driving on European-standard roads, benefit from functional SEPA transactions, and talk on the phone in European states at low rates, through roaming, as at home," the Prime Minister added.
According to Prime Minister Munteanu, the Republic of Moldova must be prepared to conclude accession negotiations by the end of 2027. For this purpose, the country has a national accession program, a dedicated team, and the full support of its citizens.
"The European path is a platform for consolidation for all of us, regardless of our political or personal views. I hope we will reach a national consensus. This is our role: to take Moldova on the European road and not allow ourselves to be stopped. Our home is Europe. I believe we must understand that we are not going to Europe, but bringing Europe home," the Prime Minister concluded.
More than a political objective: A choice of civilization
The Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee for European Integration, Marcel Spătari, noted that the speed with which the Republic of Moldova is advancing is good. The integration process is not just about harmonizing legislation; it represents a profound transformation of how institutions function.
The MP highlighted the importance of investing in sustainable infrastructure, digitalization, and innovation, in partnership with the European Union, member states, and European institutions.
"We must ensure the broadest possible societal consensus regarding the European integration process, which is why transparency and public participation are essential. The volume of work is very large, and we must complete it correctly. We must advance together with the entire society.
European integration is more than a political objective – it is a choice of civilization. I have said it many times: the European Union is the greatest peace project in human history, and we must always keep this in mind," Spătari underlined.
EU stands alongside a strong Republic of Moldova
In his greeting message, the German Ambassador to Chișinău, Hubert Knirsch, reiterated the support of European partners for the Republic of Moldova's accession to the great European family – support also confirmed at the level of the European Union's leadership.
According to the diplomat, the Republic of Moldova is advancing consistently in all areas and in all chapters of the upcoming negotiations. The European Commission's progress report, presented last week, acknowledged these achievements, and the EU is prepared to open negotiations for the first three clusters.
"We all heard from the Prime Minister, today and in the past, that the Government will work to reform local public administration, reform enterprises, and boost public investment, using both its own resources and funds coming through the EU Growth Plan, while also attracting private investment. The list of tasks is long," Hubert Knirsch stated, expressing Germany's support for the economic transformation process envisioned by this path towards the European Union.
"We want the Republic of Moldova to be stronger, sovereign, and secure as a democracy. We stand by you, and together we will succeed," the Ambassador concluded.
The progress of the Republic of Moldova recorded in the last year on the European integration path is reflected in the European Union enlargement report, approved on November 4 by the European Commission. European Commissioner for Enlargement, Marta Kos, emphasized that the Republic of Moldova is the country that has made the greatest progress in a single year in the EU accession process. The country has advanced at an accelerated pace and has significantly deepened cooperation with the bloc, despite continuous hybrid threats and attempts to destabilize the country.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
