Vice-President of the European Parliament Victor Negrescu backs Moldova talks: “A timely decision boosts reforms”
The European Parliament informs the European Council about the opportunity to begin cluster negotiations with the Republic of Moldova after the recent elections in Hungary.
The decision regarding relations with the Republic of Moldova could be made at the first formal meeting in June, or it could be agreed upon immediately at the ambassadorial level. This is suggested by Victor Negrescu, the Vice-President of the European legislative forum responsible for these relations.
In a letter addressed to the President of the European Council, António Costa, Negrescu points out that the recent parliamentary elections in Hungary have paved the way for this decision, which he describes as "long overdue" due to the unanimity rule and the opposition from Hungary's pro-Russian government.
Negrescu emphasizes that "The Republic of Moldova has made significant progress and shown a strong commitment to its European path. Starting cluster negotiations would give a new impetus to necessary reforms and strengthen collaboration with Romania. It is time for the European Union to affirm this path with a decisive action."
According to him, the results of the Hungarian elections reaffirm pro-European sentiments throughout the region and indicate a willingness to support enlargement based on merit. He believes this is a critical moment for the European Union to act decisively.
Negrescu states, “This moment presents an opportunity for the European Union to respond with clarity and strategic consistency.” He underscores the importance of proceeding with formal negotiations, noting that such a decision would send a strong political signal, bolster the credibility of the enlargement process, and demonstrate that the European Union is keeping its commitments.
In his letter to António Costa, he asserts, “A clear and timely decision would enhance reforms, increase stability, and strengthen the Union’s strategic presence in the region.” He urges the President of the European Council to give “high priority” to this topic on the agenda for the next European Council and to support the decision to open negotiations.
This step, according to Negrescu, would also meet “the clear expectations and ongoing commitment of the citizens of the Republic of Moldova to their European future.” He concludes by stating that the European Union must remain consistent, predictable, and ambitious.
After 16 years of dominant rule by Viktor Orbán's pro-Russian party, the opposition party led by Péter Magyar achieved a landslide victory in the parliamentary elections held on April 12. They are projected to secure a qualified majority with 138 seats in the Hungarian legislature.
On April 13, Maia Sandu, the President of the Republic of Moldova, congratulated Péter Magyar and his Tisza party on their electoral success. In a message posted on the X platform, she expressed her commitment to strengthening the relationship between the Republic of Moldova and Hungary, emphasizing the importance of cooperation for a stronger and more united Europe.
Additionally, on March 17, the Republic of Moldova and the European Union began technical negotiations covering the final three groups of accession chapters. Technical negotiations are ongoing for all six groups, encompassing 33 chapters of the acquis communautaire.
