Moldova aims to open all EU negotiation chapters by year-end
The Republic of Moldova aims to open all negotiation chapters with the European Union by the end of this year. The announcement was made by President Maia Sandu during a phone conversation on October 12 with the Prime Minister of Ireland, Micheál Martin—the country holding the Presidency of the Council of the EU until December 31.
The two officials met just days before the European Council meeting on October 15–16, which includes European Union enlargement on its agenda.
Beyond the country's path toward European integration, the heads of state and government discussed topics on the bilateral agenda. These include the social security agreement—a crucial document that will guarantee pension rights for Moldovan citizens who have worked in Ireland.
Maia Sandu and Micheál Martin also discussed preparations for the European Political Community summit, scheduled to take place in Dublin on November 12. The event will bring together leaders from across Europe to debate current challenges regarding the continent's security and stability.
On October 13, the Republic of Moldova will officially open European Union accession negotiations for two additional groups of chapters: Internal Market and Competitiveness and Inclusive Growth.
The Intergovernmental Conference will begin at 9:00 PM (Moldova time). A joint press conference is scheduled for 10:00 PM, featuring European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos and Irish Minister for European Affairs Thomas Byrne. Moldova 1 will broadcast the event live.
The accession process comprises 33 negotiating chapters, grouped into six clusters. To date, the Republic of Moldova has opened two of these. The first, "Fundamentals," opened in June, while the "External Relations" chapter opened in July.
