Siegfried Mureșan: Moldova could join the EU in a few years
The European integration of the Republic of Moldova is crucial not only for the future of Chișinău but also for the security of the European Union. According to MEP Siegfried Mureșan, if the country continues on its current pro-European course, it could begin accession negotiations within a few years.
"We can only ensure safety within the European Union if our neighboring states are safe, stable, and strong. The best way to strengthen our neighbors, particularly candidate states, is to support their progress toward European integration," an official told the Romanian press.
The MEP expressed confidence that "if in the coming years there is a determined, pro-European government in Chisinau that fulfills its commitments" negotiations with Moldova could be completed in a few years. He added that a strong, pro-European Republic of Moldova is also in Romania's direct interest.
"If across the Prut there is a strong, pro-European state like the Republic of Moldova preparing to become a European Union member, it is much better for us, Romania. We will be significantly safer than if pro-Putin officials were governing in Chisinau."
Discussing the country's path toward Europe, Mureșan emphasized the accelerated pace of integration. The Republic of Moldova submitted its application for accession in March 2022 and obtained candidate state status within just three months. Subsequently, a decision to begin negotiations was made approximately 1.5 years later. By comparison, Mureșan noted that Romania took over four years to reach the same stage by the end of the 1990s.
"The European Union is eager for the Republic of Moldova and other candidate states to join as quickly as possible. However, for this to happen, these states must meet specific conditions and implement necessary reforms. Therefore, the timing of accession primarily depends on the candidates' capacity to carry out these reforms," the MEP explained.
We remind you that the Republic of Moldova and the EU launched technical negotiations on March 17 for the last three groups of accession chapters: Competitiveness and Inclusive Growth, Green Agenda and Connectivity, and Resources, Agriculture and Cohesion.
Currently, the technical negotiations encompass all six groups and all 33 chapters of the acquis communautaire.
