Moldova report adopted; EP urges faster EU integration
On Tuesday, July 8, the European Parliament voted overwhelmingly in favor of the annual report concerning the Republic of Moldova's progress in its bid to join the European Union. The report praised the reforms implemented by the authorities in Chisinau and urged member states to promptly open all negotiation clusters, in line with the principle of meritocracy.
The report, drafted by Estonian MEP Sven Mikser, was adopted with 505 votes in favor, 115 against, and 45 abstentions.
In the adopted resolution, MEPs commend the Republic of Moldova for its steady progress in implementing the reforms necessary for EU accession, despite facing both internal and external challenges, particularly the ongoing interference from the Russian Federation.
The European Parliament appreciates the initiation of accession negotiations for the "Fundamental Values" cluster, which includes justice, fundamental rights, freedom, security, and financial control. It urges the Council of the European Union to open all other negotiation clusters without delay.
The Parliament emphasizes that the commencement of formal accession negotiations acknowledges the achievements made by the Republic of Moldova. It asserts that the negotiation process should not be obstructed or delayed by bilateral disputes.
Sven Mikser stated that the opening of formal accession negotiations illustrates that the European Union "recognizes and rewards the country’s concrete achievements." He added, "The Republic of Moldova has made solid progress despite difficult circumstances. Achieving the ambitious goal of concluding accession negotiations by 2028 will further accelerate the momentum of this reform. The EU must provide unwavering support to help the Republic of Moldova succeed."
Limiting oligarchs’ influence while facing pressure from Moscow
The report highlights the European Commission’s assessment that the Republic of Moldova has made significant progress in judicial reform and in combating corruption. Nevertheless, MEPs stress the need to continue efforts to limit oligarchs' influence in the political, economic, and media sectors, considering this a priority for advancing the country's European aspirations.
An important section of the document addresses the hybrid threats posed by Russia. The European Parliament warns that Moscow continues to exert pressure on and influence democratic processes in the Republic of Moldova, attempting to sow divisions within society over its European orientation.
In this context, MEPs call on the European Union and its member states to enhance their support for the Republic of Moldova by strengthening institutional resilience, developing strategic communication capacities, improving cybersecurity, supporting independent media, and protecting democratic processes.
The resolution also welcomes the deepening of the economic integration of the Republic of Moldova into the European single market and encourages further sectoral integration and trade liberalization. In the energy sector, the European Parliament commends the Chisinau Government's plan to eliminate dependence on Russian energy resources.
Regarding the Transnistrian region, the European Parliament reaffirms its support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Moldova. It calls on the Russian Federation to fully withdraw its troops, military equipment, and ammunition that are illegally stationed in the region.
The European Parliament also approved the report on Ukraine.
Today, the Parliament voted on a report regarding Ukraine, with 460 votes in favor, 136 against, and 59 abstentions. The report emphasizes the need for a constructive discussion on advancing Ukraine's European integration while considering the EU's strategic interests.
Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) urged EU member states to recognize the dynamics in candidate countries, particularly in light of Russia's efforts to undermine public support for EU membership. They highlighted the importance of working to strengthen both Ukraine’s future security and that of the entire European continent.
The European Parliament also evaluated Ukraine's progress regarding reforms related to EU accession. They welcomed the launch of the first core thematic group for Ukraine's accession negotiations, scheduled for June 2026. MEPs expressed hope that subsequent thematic groups will be established soon, though using more cautious language than in the case of the Republic of Moldova.
