Sandu targets 2028 EU treaty while uncoupling breakaway conflict
Moldova is technically prepared to conclude individual European Union accession chapters, President Maia Sandu said, reaffirming Chișinău's ambition to sign an accession treaty by the end of 2028.
Speaking in an interview with CaleaEuropeană.ro, the head of state stressed that advancing the formal timeline now depends on institutional decisions in Brussels, even as Moldovan authorities continue domestic structural reforms.
Uncoupling accession from frozen conflict
Sandu expressed confidence that Brussels and Chișinău will find a framework preventing the unresolved conflict in the breakaway Transnistrian region from derailing the country’s European integration.
“We are working with all responsibility to fulfill the commitments made to our citizens,” said Sandu. “The main impediment is the illegal presence of Russian troops. Even if security risks from this perspective remain low, an illegal army is still stationed there.”
The Moldovan president dismissed suggestions that the country's bid must replicate past accession models, noting that geopolitical dynamics could shift alongside prospective peace talks in neighboring Ukraine.
Safeguards and full membership
Addressing European Commission discussions on EU institutional reform ahead of future enlargement, Sandu acknowledged member states' concerns and the necessity of post-accession safeguards.
She noted that neighboring Romania underwent similar monitoring after joining the bloc, but emphasized that Chișinău is working toward unconditional, full membership rather than a second-tier status.
“It is natural for member states to seek safeguards and ensure that progress continues after accession,” said Sandu. “We are working to prove that what we are building here is sustainable.”
Negotiation roadmap
The EU accession process encompasses 33 chapters across six policy clusters. Moldova opened Cluster 1 on Fundamental Values in June and Cluster 6 on External Relations in July.
Cluster 2, covering the Internal Market, and Cluster 3, focused on Competitiveness and Inclusive Growth, are slated for opening next week, with the remaining clusters expected before year-end, according to European Council President António Costa.
The European Commission’s enlargement package will be formally evaluated by EU leaders at the European Council summit on October 15–16.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
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