Moldova and Europe: One step closer
The first bilateral Moldova–EU Summit, held in Chișinău, marks a new chapter for Moldova’s EU future. In a Joint Declaration, both sides reaffirmed Moldova’s rightful place in the European family and committed to accelerating reforms, investments, and partnerships that improve lives and protect democratic values.
President Maia Sandu thanked Moldova’s European partners for their trust and concrete support, while European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised Moldova’s “impressive resilience and determination.”
“The EU and Moldova share a future — and we will build it together,”
Ursula von der Leyen stated at the event.
What was agreed?
At the summit, Moldova and the EU outlined an ambitious, people-centered plan:
- First disbursement of €270 million under the €1.9 billion Growth Plan, funding key reforms to boost Moldova’s economy and create new jobs.
- Moldova will work toward full integration into the EU Single Market, including joining SEPA (the euro payments area) by October 2025, eliminating roaming fees by January 2026, and rolling out free WiFi in public spaces under the WiFi4Moldova initiative.
- Energy independence commitments, with a €330 million investment to modernize Chișinău’s heating system and connect the Vulcănești–Chișinău 400kV power line, ensuring Moldova is fully resilient to energy shocks by the end of 2025.
- Peace and security through a joint security and defense partnership, including EU-backed cyber defense measures and expanded cooperation on countering hybrid threats.
- Strong support for justice reform and anti-corruption, continuing Moldova’s vetting of top judges and the adoption of new legislation with EU technical support.
Moldova’s EU path moves forward
European leaders agreed that Moldova has made remarkable progress on reforms and is now ready to advance. The European Commission confirmed that Moldova will finish its accession screening by autumn 2025 and can open negotiations on the first negotiation cluster covering fundamentals such as the rule of law, human rights, and democratic standards.
The summit also pledged to deepen Moldova’s participation in EU agencies, such as the European Medicines Agency, the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights, and the European Environmental Agency, giving Moldova access to more European opportunities.
Why does this matter?
For Moldovan citizens, these commitments mean:
- higher salaries and more jobs
- secure, affordable energy
- a stronger voice in Europe
- safer, more democratic institutions
- free movement and cheaper financial services
For Europe, it means:
- a stronger, more resilient EU neighborhood
- a trustworthy partner with shared values
- stability and security on Europe’s eastern border
A stronger Moldova, a stronger Europe
This historic summit proves Moldova’s European path is real, tangible, and achievable. From energy independence to democratic reforms, the Moldova–EU partnership is helping Moldovans build a future anchored in European freedoms and opportunities.
As Ursula von der Leyen declared:
“We are with you — Moldova belongs in our European family.”
