Moldova Set for EU Funds in Pre-Accession Phase, Expert Says
Moldova could expect "several billion euros" in pre-accession funds from the European Union, according to expert Mihai Isac.
Speaking on Radio Moldova's "Paralela 47" program, Isac emphasised the need for state institutions to be ready to effectively absorb and manage these funds.
"Until accession, hopefully by 2030 – a target shared by Brussels and Chișinău – the funds should be used for projects directly improving people's lives," Isac stressed. He listed priorities like village water pipelines, road improvements, better healthcare facilities, and support for small businesses. Additionally, some funds could be directed towards economic growth and reintegration efforts for the Transnistrian region.
Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Cristina Gherasimov recently kicked off the process of assessing Moldova's legislative alignment with EU standards during a visit to Brussels. She acknowledged the complex and time-consuming nature of the process, requiring "immense effort" and expertise across 33 specific chapters.
Gherasimov emphasised the need for comparing Moldovan and EU laws, identifying discrepancies, and enacting necessary amendments. She highlighted the crucial role of Parliament in facilitating this process.
With a focus on the key chapter of justice, Gherasimov and her team will return to Brussels on February 21-22 for further analysis of EU legislation in this specific domain. Negotiations on accession formally begin and conclude with the justice chapter, Gherasimov clarified.
Following Moldova's application for EU membership in March 2022, the European Commission issued its opinion within a year. Subsequently, candidate country status was granted in June 2022. After Moldova fulfilled recommendations set by the Commission, EU leaders in December 2023 approved opening accession negotiations and invited the Council to finalise the framework once relevant steps are completed.
Both authorities and experts view 2030 as a feasible target for Moldova to achieve full EU membership.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
