EU candidate Moldova: Hopeful path, Russian doubts
Moldova's unwavering commitment to European integration is reverberating across the geopolitical landscape, generating both excitement and friction.
Foreign ministry spokesperson Igor Zaharov, speaking on Radio Moldova's "ZI DE ZI" (Day by Day) program, declared the country's westward trajectory "irreversible."
"Moldova is drawing closer and firmly anchoring itself in the European family," Zaharov asserted. "We are not yet a member state, but the path is becoming irreversible." This resolute stance comes in the wake of a landmark decision by the European Council to grant Moldova candidate status for EU membership, a move met with mixed reactions.
While Zaharov acknowledged "discontent, perhaps even some bewilderment in the Russian political class," he firmly emphasised Moldova's independence in charting its own course. "We have chosen our path," he declared, "and we strongly ask that no external actor interfere in our internal decisions."
The Kremlin, however, expressed reservations about the EU's decision. Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov characterised it as "politicised" and argued that neither Ukraine nor Moldova currently meets the necessary criteria for accession. He further voiced concerns about potential destabilisation of the EU, citing ongoing internal challenges. Despite these anxieties, Peskov confirmed Moscow's close monitoring of both countries' European integration processes.
Moldova's move towards the EU reflects a broader geopolitical shift, with the country seeking stability and economic prosperity within the European framework. The decision has sparked hope among many Moldovans who view it as a step towards a brighter future.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
