Moldova moves closer to EU with support for elections, reforms
It is evident that the Russian Federation will persist in its attempts to influence the political and democratic processes in the Republic of Moldova, particularly in the context of next year’s parliamentary elections and the initiation of negotiations for European Union accession.
The administration in Chișinău must address these attempts but will not face this challenge alone. The European Union stands and will continue to stand alongside Moldova in this effort, stated European Ambassador Janis Mazeiks during the “Diplomatic Dimension” program on Moldova 1.
According to the ambassador, the European Union will assist the Republic of Moldova in confronting the hybrid threats posed by the Russian Federation, just as it did during the recent presidential elections and the referendum on the country’s European trajectory.
“This includes support for combating disinformation, expertise in addressing illicit financial flows, and it is clear that these efforts must continue. We will persist in these areas and expand into others, such as combating cybercrime and responding to cyberattacks. I am confident that such attacks will continue. For us, it is not about supporting any particular political party but understanding the intentions of the electoral participants and ensuring that the actions of politicians align with their words. For example, regarding the negotiation process, it is crucial that actions accompany words, enabling swift progress on the European path,” stated Janis Mazeiks.
The ambassador also emphasized that, despite the challenges, the Republic of Moldova must maintain the pace of its reforms. In 2025, negotiations on EU accession chapters will formally commence, and the European Union’s support will remain unwavering.
“It is clear that the Republic of Moldova enjoys substantial support. The European Parliament has already issued a resolution supporting Moldova. The European Commission has declared its readiness for expansion. From my perspective, the most important aspect is that Moldova is prepared to maintain its current momentum. The country is advancing rapidly on the European path, and it is essential not to lose this pace,” Mazeiks added.
In 2025, the European Union will continue supporting Moldovan farmers and exporters through a new program dedicated to agriculture. Likewise, social infrastructure projects will persist, including the rehabilitation and construction of water and sewage systems, energy efficiency projects in schools, kindergartens, and other social institutions, as well as the establishment of laundries and social canteens. Furthermore, the €1.8 billion Growth Plan for Moldova will be implemented. This is the European Union’s most significant financial package, aiming, among other goals, to double Moldova’s economic growth by 2027.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
