Marta Kos in Chișinău: Six Clusters Ready for Negotiations by Year’s End

European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos delivered a supportive message during her visit to Chișinău. She announced that Moldova is anticipated to be ready to initiate accession negotiations with the European Union by the end of this year. This development encompasses all six thematic clusters outlined by the EU.

Marta Kos Affirms Moldova’s Progress Towards EU Membership

At a public event attended by Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu, Kos praised the rapid pace of Moldova’s reforms. She acknowledged the country’s resilience against external interference and commended the citizens’ ongoing commitment to European integration.

“By the end of the year, you’re going to be ready to start negotiations. What a success!” exclaimed Kos. She highlighted Moldova’s quick screening process and noted that it has made the most significant annual progress among all candidate countries.

Key Points from the Visit

• Moldova will be ready for EU accession negotiations on six thematic clusters by the end of 2025.
• This marks Kos’s fourth visit to Moldova within a year.
• She emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum in reforms beyond this year.
• 2026 is seen as pivotal for the implementation of reforms, particularly in justice, anti-corruption, and central banking independence.
• Possible completion of negotiations by 2028 and ratification of membership by 2029.

During her visit, Kos also reflected on the practical impacts of reforms in daily life. Initiatives such as joining the SEPA payment area and the ‘roaming like at home’ regime will be effective by 2026.

Comments from Moldova’s Leadership

Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu expressed that Moldova has made significant advancements, stating, “In just one year, we’ve progressed four times faster across various sectors, from justice to digitalization.” He reiterated Moldova’s commitment to European integration.

In response to queries on Russia’s influence, Kos remarked that attempts to sway Moldova from its European path have failed. “Moldovan citizens have proven stronger than external pressures,” she stated. Kos also announced the upcoming “Shield of Democracy” initiative by the European Commission designed to support democracies in EU member states and candidate countries.

The Future of Moldova’s EU Aspirations

The outcomes of Kos’s visit present a promising outlook for Moldova’s aspirations of EU membership. However, further progress relies on the consensus of EU member states. She underscored the necessity to closely monitor political developments within Moldova, especially in light of ongoing reforms.