Category: EU Accession

  • EU–Moldova Summit: Investing in Growth, Security and Europe’s Shared Future

    EU–Moldova Summit: Investing in Growth, Security and Europe’s Shared Future

    The EU–Moldova Summit held in Brussels on 22 June marked another important step in Moldova’s European integration process. Coming only days after the official opening of accession negotiations under Cluster 1 – Fundamentals, the summit reaffirmed the European Union’s strong political commitment to Moldova’s future membership and outlined concrete measures to accelerate the country’s economic development, resilience, and integration into the European family.

    More than a diplomatic gathering, the summit reflected a growing recognition that Moldova’s European future is closely linked to the future security, stability, and prosperity of the continent as a whole.

    From Candidate Country to Active Integration

    Since obtaining EU candidate status in 2022, Moldova has made significant progress in implementing reforms, strengthening democratic institutions, and aligning with European standards.

    The opening of accession negotiations earlier this month represented a historic achievement. The Brussels summit built upon this momentum, focusing on practical steps to deepen Moldova’s integration with the European Union even before membership.

    European leaders acknowledged Moldova’s reform efforts and reiterated their support for advancing the accession process based on merit and continued progress.

    Unprecedented European Support for Moldova’s Development

    A central outcome of the summit was the advancement of the EU Growth Plan for Moldova, the largest European financial support package ever dedicated to the country.

    Through the €1.9 billion Growth Plan, the European Union is investing in Moldova’s long-term transformation, helping accelerate reforms and improve the quality of life for citizens.

    The support will contribute to:

    • Modernisation of transport infrastructure and connectivity;
    • Energy interconnections and increased energy security;
    • Development of local businesses and support for entrepreneurship;
    • Digitalisation of public services and institutions;
    • Education, skills development and workforce competitiveness;
    • Modern healthcare and social infrastructure;
    • Strengthening public administration and governance reforms.

    These investments aim not only to support economic growth but also to bring Moldova closer to the European Single Market and create new opportunities for businesses, communities, and young people.

    The Growth Plan reflects a broader European commitment to helping Moldova achieve sustainable development while preparing for future membership.

    Enlargement as an Investment in European Security

    One of the strongest messages emerging from the summit was that enlargement is increasingly viewed as a strategic investment in Europe’s security.

    Russia’s war against Ukraine has transformed the European security landscape and reinforced the importance of a stable, democratic, and resilient neighbourhood.

    In this context, Moldova’s European integration is no longer seen solely as a technical accession process. It is also a contribution to a stronger and more secure Europe.

    Over the past years, Moldova has demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of unprecedented challenges, including energy blackmail, cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and attempts to interfere in democratic processes.

    By continuing reforms and strengthening its institutions, Moldova is helping reinforce stability along the EU’s eastern border and contributing to the broader security of the continent.

    Strengthening Security, Defence and Resilience

    The summit also highlighted growing cooperation between Moldova and the European Union in the fields of security and defence.

    European support will continue to help Moldova strengthen its capacity to address hybrid threats, counter foreign interference, improve cybersecurity, and protect critical infrastructure.

    The EU reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Moldova through instruments designed to enhance national resilience and defence capabilities, while respecting the country’s constitutional neutrality.

    Cooperation is expanding in several key areas:

    • Cybersecurity and protection of critical infrastructure;
    • Countering disinformation and foreign information manipulation;
    • Crisis preparedness and civil protection;
    • Border management and security cooperation;
    • Defence modernisation and resilience-building measures;
    • Energy security and protection against external pressure.

    These efforts are aimed at ensuring that Moldova remains secure, resilient, and capable of protecting its democratic institutions in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment.

    A Stronger Europe Includes Moldova

    The Brussels summit confirmed that Moldova’s relationship with the European Union has entered a new phase.

    The country is no longer simply preparing for a European future—it is becoming increasingly integrated into Europe’s economic, political, and security architecture.

    The combination of accession negotiations, unprecedented financial support, and enhanced cooperation on security and resilience demonstrates that Moldova’s European path is moving steadily forward.

    As Europe faces growing geopolitical challenges, Moldova’s accession is about more than membership alone. It is about building a stronger, safer, and more united Europe.

    Moldova’s future is European. Increasingly, Europe’s future includes Moldova.

  • Moldova–EU Accession Negotiations Officially Open

    Moldova–EU Accession Negotiations Officially Open

    On 15 June 2026, the European Union and the Republic of Moldova officially opened accession negotiations on the first negotiation cluster, “Fundamentals”, during the second Intergovernmental Conference held in Luxembourg.

    The decision marks the beginning of a new phase in Moldova’s EU accession process and reflects the progress achieved through years of reforms, institutional strengthening and alignment with European standards.

    The Fundamentals cluster covers the areas that lie at the heart of the European project: the rule of law, democratic institutions, fundamental rights, justice, security, public administration reform and economic governance. Progress in these areas forms the foundation for advancing negotiations across all other chapters of the EU acquis.

    The opening of the first cluster follows the unanimous support of all 27 EU Member States and represents a strong signal of confidence in Moldova’s European trajectory. It also acknowledges the efforts of public institutions, civil servants, civil society and citizens who continue to contribute to the country’s transformation.

    Commenting on the milestone, European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos described the opening of the first negotiating cluster as a major step forward that brings Moldova into the next stage of its EU accession path.

    President Maia Sandu highlighted the significance of the moment, noting that Moldova’s accession to the European Union is no longer a distant objective, but a reality that the country is already building through perseverance, reforms and a shared commitment to a European future.

    The opening of negotiations is not the final destination. It is the start of a demanding but transformative process that will bring Moldova closer to the European Union and help deliver stronger institutions, greater opportunities and a higher quality of life for its citizens.

    As Moldova moves forward on its European journey, this milestone stands as a testament to the country’s resilience, determination and unwavering commitment to the values that unite Europe.

    Moldova has entered a new stage. The European future is no longer ahead of us — it is already taking shape.

  • Moldova Advances EU Accession Talks Across All Chapters

    Moldova Advances EU Accession Talks Across All Chapters

    The Republic of Moldova has reached a defining milestone in its European integration journey: the launch of technical negotiations across all 33 chapters of the EU acquis.

    With the opening of negotiations on the final clusters — Competitiveness and Inclusive Growth, Green Agenda and Sustainable Connectivity, and Resources, Agriculture and Cohesion — Moldova has now entered a new phase of its accession process. This marks the transition from political commitment to full technical alignment with European standards.

    The step reflects both progress and trust.

    Over the past years, Moldova has demonstrated consistent commitment to reforms, even in the face of regional instability, energy crises, and external pressure. Today, that effort is being recognized by European partners, who have endorsed Moldova’s readiness to advance negotiations across the entire acquis.

    But beyond Brussels, the implications are tangible at home.

    Each negotiation chapter translates into concrete improvements for citizens — stronger institutions, modern infrastructure, cleaner energy, safer food standards, better public services, and expanded economic opportunities. EU integration is not an abstract process; it is a transformation that reshapes everyday life.

    The opening of all chapters does not mark the end of the journey — it marks its most demanding phase.

    Ahead lies the detailed work of aligning legislation, implementing reforms, and delivering measurable results. The path requires sustained effort, institutional capacity, and political determination. But the direction is clear, and the momentum is real.

    Moldova is no longer preparing for Europe.

    Moldova is negotiating its place within it.

    Moldova, Europe.

  • Moldova Joins the Roam Like At Home Area: A Digital Step Closer to Europe

    Moldova Joins the Roam Like At Home Area: A Digital Step Closer to Europe

    Starting 1 January 2026, Moldova will officially join the Roam Like At Home area, allowing Moldovan citizens to use mobile services across the European Union without additional roaming charges. Calls, messages and mobile data will cost the same as at home—just like for EU citizens.

    It is a practical, everyday change that brings Moldova closer to Europe in one of the most tangible ways: connectivity.

    What Roam Like At Home means in practice

    Once the system enters into force, Moldovans travelling in the EU will be able to:

    • Make and receive calls at domestic tariffs
    • Use mobile data without extra roaming fees
    • Stay connected across borders without fear of unexpected bills

    For students, entrepreneurs, diaspora members, tourists and professionals, this means freedom of movement backed by digital certainty.

    More than convenience: digital integration

    Roam Like At Home is not only a consumer benefit—it is a sign of regulatory alignment and trust. Moldova’s inclusion confirms that the country has met the technical, legal and market conditions required to integrate into the EU’s digital single market rules.

    It reflects years of reforms in:

    • Telecommunications regulation
    • Consumer protection
    • Market competition and standards alignment

    In short, Moldova is playing by European rules—and being recognised for it.

    A win for citizens, business and the diaspora

    This step strengthens everyday ties between Moldova and the EU:

    • Moldovan businesses can operate and communicate more easily across borders
    • The diaspora stays seamlessly connected with home
    • Young people experience Europe as an accessible, integrated space

    Digital connectivity becomes a quiet but powerful driver of European belonging.

    Moldova, Europe—connected by default

    From 2026, Europe will no longer start at the border when it comes to mobile communication. Moldova’s inclusion in Roam Like At Home shows how European integration translates into real-life benefits—felt not in declarations, but in daily routines.

    This is what progress looks like when it reaches people’s pockets, phones and lives.

    Moldova, Europe.

    Connected without borders.

  • Maia Sandu, Leader of the Year: Moldova’s European Path Recognised by The Telegraph

    Maia Sandu, Leader of the Year: Moldova’s European Path Recognised by The Telegraph


    At a moment when Europe is redefining its future, Maia Sandu stands out as a leader who chose courage over convenience. In its year-end global ranking, The Telegraph named the President of the Republic of Moldova World Leader of the Year, recognising not only her personal leadership, but the direction Moldova has taken under her mandate.

    For a small country at Europe’s eastern edge—often tested by geopolitical pressure, energy blackmail and disinformation—this recognition is more than symbolic. It is a signal that Moldova’s choices matter, and that principled leadership still counts on the global stage.

    Leadership under pressure, not in theory

    According to The Telegraph, Maia Sandu’s leadership stands out for one essential reason: she has governed in crisis without abandoning democratic values. Since taking office, she has led Moldova through overlapping shocks—Russia’s war against Ukraine, hybrid attacks, economic turbulence and attempts to destabilise the state—while keeping the country firmly anchored to the European path.

    Rather than opting for populism or neutrality by fear, Sandu chose clarity: defending democracy, strengthening institutions, and aligning Moldova with European norms—even when that path came with political costs at home.

    A European choice, made with responsibility

    Under Maia Sandu’s leadership, Moldova:

    • Obtained EU candidate status, a historic milestone for the country
    • Accelerated reforms in justice, anti-corruption and public administration
    • Reinforced energy security and reduced dependency on hostile actors
    • Acted as a responsible partner for regional stability, especially in the context of the war in neighbouring Ukraine

    The Telegraph highlights that Sandu’s leadership is not performative. It is consistent, disciplined, and rooted in long-term vision rather than short-term applause.

    Why this matters for Moldova—and for Europe

    This recognition is not only about one person. It is about what Moldova represents today:

    • A democracy that resists pressure
    • A society that chooses reform over stagnation
    • A country that believes its future is European—not by geography alone, but by values

    In a year when many leaders hesitated, Moldova moved forward. Calmly. Decisively. With dignity.

    Moldova, Europe—through leadership that delivers

    At MoldovaInEU, we see this moment as a reflection of something larger: Moldova’s transformation from a country often spoken about into a country increasingly listened to. Leadership matters—and Maia Sandu’s leadership has placed Moldova firmly on Europe’s political and moral map.

    Being named Leader of the Year by one of Europe’s most influential publications is not the end of a journey. It is confirmation that Moldova is on the right path—and that its voice belongs in Europe’s future.

    Moldova, Europe.

    Fearlessly moving forward.

  • Moldova, Fearlessly Moving Forward: A Documentary About a Country Choosing Europe

    Moldova, Fearlessly Moving Forward: A Documentary About a Country Choosing Europe

    On 15 January 2026, MoldovaInEU launched the documentary Moldova, Fearlessly Moving Forward — a film that captures today’s Moldova and the clear direction the country has chosen: reforms, resilience, and Europe.

    This documentary is not about distant ambitions or hypothetical scenarios. It is about a real process already in motion, built in recent years amid one of the most challenging regional contexts Europe has faced in decades.

    A difficult context. A clear response.

    The Republic of Moldova has been deeply affected by overlapping crises: the war in Ukraine unfolding in its immediate neighbourhood, the energy crisis, sustained economic and social pressure, and persistent disinformation campaigns aimed at weakening democratic institutions.

    Moldova, Fearlessly Moving Forward shows how Moldova responded to these challenges — not through hesitation or ambiguity, but through concrete reforms, political responsibility, and a firm European course.

    From European discourse to European delivery

    Through the voices of Moldovan and European leaders, decision-makers, journalists, and partners, the documentary tells a central story: Moldova’s European path is no longer a promise. It is a measurable, visible process.

    “Moldova’s European path is no longer a promise. It is a real process, built through reforms, resilience, and democratic commitment,”says Cristina Gherasimov, Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration, in the documentary.

    At European level, this progress is clearly recognised. According to the European Commission’s Enlargement Report, Moldova has recorded the greatest progress among all candidate countries in the past two years — an assessment that places the country at the forefront of the EU enlargement process.

    A rare recognition — and a strong signal

    The message conveyed throughout the film is consistent and unequivocal:

    • Moldova has advanced faster in the past two years than in the previous three decades combined;
    • reforms are no longer declarative, but structural and functional;
    • political determination has become Moldova’s key differentiator among EU candidate countries.

    The documentary sends a simple but powerful message:

    Moldova’s European future is not distant or abstract. It is being built now.

    Why this documentary. Why now.

    Moldova, Fearlessly Moving Forward was filmed in November 2025 in Brussels, in the context of the country event “Moldova, Europe” — the first large-scale country event organised by the Republic of Moldova in the EU capital during a decisive year for its European trajectory.

    The documentary is part of MoldovaInEU’s broader mission to explain Moldova’s European path in a clear, accessible, and credible way, to counter disinformation, and to present Moldova as it truly is: democratic, resilient, and firmly anchored in European values.

    Credits:

    Produced by: MoldovaInEU

    Main support: Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Moldova

    Special thanks to:

    • European Commission
    • PractNet
    • Soros Foundation Moldova
    • Moldova’s Diplomatic Mission to the European Union
    • Bureau for European Integration
  • Moldova, Europe – A Defining Night in the Heart of Brussels

    Moldova, Europe – A Defining Night in the Heart of Brussels

    On November 4, in the heart of Europe – Brussels, Moldova presented itself through an evening of culture, identity and vision.

    Hosted by the Diplomatic Mission of the Republic of Moldova to the European Union and conceptualized by the MoldovaIn.EU platform, together with the Bureau for European Integration, the event “Moldova, Europe” brought together more than 600 Friends of Moldova: European officials, diplomats, journalists, and partners who believe in a European Moldova.

    In the presence of President Maia Sandu and EU Commissioner Marta Kos, the evening became a symbol of Moldova’s European destiny – on the very same day when the European Commission’s Enlargement Report recognized Moldova as “the country that has made the biggest progress among all EU candidates.”

    “Each of you, in your own way, has helped us face the many challenges of recent years – and still move forward on our European path. On behalf of the people of Moldova, thank you for standing with us,”
    said President Maia Sandu, addressing the audience at Bozar’s Victor Horta Hall.

    An evening of meaning and emotion

    The event unfolded as a journey through art, music, and identity, telling the story of a country that is both young and timeless – proud of its roots, confident in its European future.

    The Concertino Ensemble of the National Philharmonic, together with soprano Diana Axentii and musicians Radu Țălămbuță and Dumitru Dubanjiu, filled the hall with the sound and spirit of Moldova.

    Guests were immersed in the visual exhibition “Moldova, Europe”, a collection of portraits, landscapes, and stories curated by MoldovaIn.EU – showing the faces and places that define a fearless, forward-moving nation.

    A taste of home, shared with Europe

    The evening’s culinary experience blended tradition and innovation: a creative fusion of European and Moldovan cuisine led by Alexandru Șapco, Young Chef of the Year by Gault & Millau. Eleven Moldovan wineries showcased their finest selections, offered alongside the emblematic book “Moldova: People, Places, Food and Wine” by Angela Brașoveanu.

    Every flavor, every note, every image told the same story — of a country that may be small in size, but vast in talent, ambition, and heart.

    “Moldova stands today not only as a candidate for the European Union — but as a confident part of its future,”
    said Ambassador Daniela Morari, host of the evening and Head of the Mission of the Republic of Moldova to the EU.

    More than an event – a declaration

    “Moldova, Europe” was not a celebration of arrival, but a declaration of belonging.

    Through culture and creativity, through honest stories and human connection, Moldova showed what it truly means to be European – not by geography, but by spirit.

    As EU Commissioner Marta Kos emphasized,
    “Moldova’s progress is a story of courage — proof that Europe’s values are alive wherever people believe in them.”

    A shared journey ahead

    This evening in Brussels was not the conclusion of Moldova’s story — it was the beginning of a new chapter, one that belongs to all who believe, contribute, and stand with us.

    🇲🇩 Moldova, Europe. Fearlessly moving forward.

    Credits

    Event: “Moldova, Europe”
    Location: Bozar | Centre for Fine Arts, Brussels
    Date: November 4, 2025
    Organisers: MoldovaIn.EU | Bureau for European Integration | Mission of the Republic of Moldova to the EU
    With support from: PractNet, Soros Foundation Moldova, Konrad Adenauer Stiftung, Wine of Moldova, National Philharmonic and others

  • Moldova chose Europe. Again.

    Moldova chose Europe. Again.

    A decisive vote for the future

    The stakes could not have been higher. The parliamentary elections were not just about seats in the legislature—they were about Moldova’s direction as a nation. On one side stood the pro-European forces, led by the ruling PAS, promising reforms, democracy, and EU membership. On the other, a coalition of pro-Russian parties and oligarchic interests, pushing a vision of “neutrality” that in practice meant dependency and stagnation.

    Despite relentless disinformation campaigns, energy blackmail, and attempts at manipulation, Moldovans voted with clarity. More than X% of citizens turned out to cast their ballots, with the majority giving their trust once again to pro-European leadership. For Russia, which poured resources into undermining this election—from coordinated media propaganda to vote-buying schemes—this was a sobering defeat.

    Russia’s interference—and Moldova’s resilience

    The Kremlin’s toolbox was on full display: fake news, deepfake videos, bots targeting diaspora communities, and even financing networks designed to infiltrate the campaign. Yet Moldovans proved resilient. Civil society, independent media, and state institutions worked hand in hand to expose the schemes and defend the integrity of the vote. This election will be remembered not just for the result, but for the way Moldova stood up against hybrid warfare—and won.

    Congratulations from Europe

    The message was heard loud and clear in European capitals. President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen congratulated Moldovans for their “courage and clarity in choosing the European future.” European Council President Charles Michel wrote that Moldova’s democratic choice is “a victory for Europe itself.” Leaders from Paris, Berlin, Warsaw, and Bucharest hailed the outcome as proof that despite pressure, Moldova remains a steadfast partner, committed to peace and stability in the region.

    Why this matters beyond Moldova

    Moldova’s elections were not just a local story—they are part of Europe’s story. At a time when Russia wages war against Ukraine and tests the resilience of democracies across the continent, Moldova’s vote was a frontline defense of European values. This small nation, positioned at the crossroads of East and West, showed that democracy is stronger than disinformation, that hope can overcome fear, and that Europe remains the choice of free people.

    The strategic importance cannot be overstated: Moldova secures a vital flank for regional stability, strengthens Europe’s eastern frontier, and deepens the bond between EU and Eastern Partnership countries.

    A nation looking forward

    For Moldovans, this is not only about geopolitics. It is about families who want to live in peace, young people who dream of opportunities at home rather than abroad, and farmers, teachers, and entrepreneurs who believe their work can flourish in a European Moldova.

    Yes, the road ahead is demanding—reforms, rule of law, economic modernization. But the mandate is clear. Moldova has chosen Europe. Again. And with each choice, the path becomes more irreversible.

    Moldova, Europe.
    A small country with a big voice. And yesterday, that voice spoke for democracy, peace, and a European future.

  • Independence Day in Chișinău: Europe Stood With Moldova

    Independence Day in Chișinău: Europe Stood With Moldova

    What the leaders said — and why it matters

    • “Moldova matters… its future is in Europe.”
      Macron underscored that EU integration means prosperity, security, and modernization—and that the EU is not the USSR, rebutting Kremlin disinformation. France pledged technical expertise and financing for priority projects in energy, infrastructure, and the economy.
    • “There can be no secure Europe without an independent and secure Moldova.”
      Tusk framed Moldova’s accession as a security imperative for the whole continent, praising Moldovans’ resilience and commitment to shared values.
    • “You are wanted in the EU.”
      Merz said Germany will work this autumn to open the first negotiation clusters for Moldova’s accession, alongside continued expert support—especially on energy security and SME development.

    Together, the messages were clear: Moldova’s European path is real, strategic, and supported across Europe’s major political families—a crucial signal ahead of the September 28 parliamentary elections, amid warnings about Russian hybrid interference.

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    Advocacy lens: what changes on Monday morning?

    • Political anchoring. The Weimar Triangle presence (France–Germany–Poland) delivers rare, high-signal alignment: Moldova’s reforms and accession track are not just bilateral favors; they are viewed as pan-European interests.
    • Operational support. Commitments referenced by Macron and Merz reinforce the toolbox Moldova needs now—energy resilience, infrastructure financing, SME growth, and EU-law alignment—with technical teams already in motion.
    • Narrative shift at home and in the EU. Leaders speaking Romanian from Moldova’s main square reframed the story from periphery and vulnerability to belonging and contribution. That matters for public confidence in reforms and for how Brussels and European capitals prioritize Moldova. ipn.md

    The day in brief

    • Who: Maia Sandu with Emmanuel Macron, Friedrich Merz, Donald Tusk.
    • Where: Presidential Palace (bilateral & joint talks), then PMAN stage.
    • Crowd: 200,000+ in the capital (official police estimate).
    • Context: 34 years of independence; elections on September 28, 2025; continued Russian hybrid pressure.

    Key quotes

    “Moldova matters… Its future is in Europe.” — Emmanuel Macron

    “There can be no secure Europe… without an independent and secure Moldova.” — Donald Tusk

    “You are wanted in the EU… we will work this fall to open the first negotiation clusters.” — Friedrich Merz

    Why this Independence Day was different

    Independence Day always celebrates sovereignty. This year, it also showcased alignment: Moldova’s democratic choice, Europe’s strategic interest, and a shared commitment to peace in a region still scarred by Russia’s war against Ukraine. The message from Chișinău to Brussels—and from Brussels back to Chișinău—was reciprocal: Moldova is Europe, and Europe is stronger with Moldova.

  • Moldova–EU Summit: Moldova Moves Closer to Europe with Historic Agreements

    Moldova–EU Summit: Moldova Moves Closer to Europe with Historic Agreements

    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.
    Photo: Igor Turcanu

    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.”