Moldova Aims for EU Accession by 2028 Amid Geopolitical Shift
The process of the Republic of Moldova's accession to the European Union could be completed by the end of 2027 or the beginning of 2028, stated Cristina Gherasimov, the Vice Prime Minister for European Integration, on "At 360 Degrees."
The date for concluding negotiations and the actual moment of accession could vary between one and a half to two years, the period necessary for member states to ratify the accession treaty.
"This is the period in which the member states must ratify the agreement, the accession treaty between the European Union and the Republic of Moldova (...). It is indeed quite a long period, especially because it is a more technical process and a time when we must truly work hard. From this perspective, I always emphasise how important it is for each citizen of the Republic of Moldova to contribute from their respective sectors. Whether it is the private sector, the academic environment, the media, students, or public institutions, everyone can contribute to our accelerated approach to the moment of accession we aim for," said Gherasimov.
She mentioned that, although the year 2030 may seem optimistic, there is a unique opportunity created by the current geopolitical situation and the openness of European institutions and member states towards the Republic of Moldova.
"And with the next European Commission, especially now with the re-election of President von der Leyen, we have the full support of European institutions for 2030 as an optimistic timeline for our accession to the European Union. At the same time, we have the full support of the member states, thanks to President Maia Sandu's efforts to regain the lost trust over many years, up until 2020, when she became president."
Additionally, Gherasimov emphasised that the current political will, influenced by regional instability and the war in Ukraine, plays a crucial role in this process.
"If we had not had the geopolitical situation created by this cruel and unjust war against Ukraine, and if we did not have this regional instability, this window of opportunity might not have existed. That's why I would say that it is a geopolitical and political constellation, where we are fortunate to have this current political will in government, which aims to bring the country and its citizens into the European Union, created by this regional geopolitical situation," mentioned the Vice Prime Minister.
She also emphasised that the accession negotiations will continue at an accelerated pace, and Moldovan officials aim to maintain and strengthen the relationship of trust with the European Union, with the goal of achieving accession by 2030.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
