EU unanimously approves new negotiation cluster for Moldova
All 27 European Union member states have unanimously approved opening a new cluster of accession negotiations for Moldova and Ukraine.
The upcoming EU-Moldova Intergovernmental Conference is scheduled for July 14, marking a significant milestone in the enlargement process.
Strategic steps toward integration
Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Cristina Gherasimov announced that the unanimous decision targets Cluster 6, which covers external relations.
Gherasimov emphasized that Moldova continues to advance in the accession process strictly based on its own merits.
The high-level meeting will begin at 18:00 Moldovan time, with the national delegation led by Interim Prime Minister Eugeniu Osmochescu.
Following the conference, a joint press briefing will feature European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos, Irish Minister of State for European Affairs Thomas Byrne, and Osmochescu.
Technical readiness and next phases
According to Euronews, the European Commission considers both Ukraine and Moldova technically prepared to open all remaining negotiation chapters.
Progress now depends on the political will within the candidate countries to establish the subsequent steps.
Several key areas remain pending, including Cluster 2 (Internal Market), Cluster 3 (Competitiveness and Inclusive Growth), Cluster 4 (Green Agenda and Sustainable Connectivity), and Cluster 5 (Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Cohesion).
Sustained reform momentum
The European Parliament requested the rapid opening of all negotiation clusters on July 7, following a plenary debate in Strasbourg.
European lawmakers welcomed the steady pace of reforms implemented by authorities in Chisinau.
The EU officially opened accession negotiations with Moldova on June 15, starting with the fundamental values cluster.
Moldova received the formal invitation to present its negotiating position for Cluster 6 on July 8, setting the stage for the upcoming conference.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
