The Republic of Moldova marked a new step in the European integration process on Monday, with the launch of the first stage of accession negotiations to the European Union. During the intergovernmental conference held in Luxembourg, the Cypriot presidency of the European Union announced the decision of the member states to open the first cluster of negotiation chapters, Fundamental Values, reports IPN.
Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanua stated that the opening of negotiations on the first group of chapters makes the accession process tangible and confirms the fact that it is advancing, surpassing the stage of promise. According to him, the “Fundamental Values” cluster is essential, as it targets democracy, the rule of law, fundamental rights, public administration and public finances, showing that the Republic of Moldova has continued to strengthen these areas despite pressures and attacks, without abandoning the democratic path.
The chief executive mentioned the strengthening of democratic institutions, justice reform through vetting, intensifying the fight against corruption, increasing electoral resilience and improving transparency, as well as reforms in public administration and the social field. In his opinion, these developments have consolidated the state and the opening of the first cluster confirms progress and marks a new stage in the accession process.
Marta Kos, the European Commissioner for Expansion, stated that the formal opening of the first group of negotiation chapters represents a major step in the accession process of the Republic of Moldova. According to her, the European Commission recognizes the progress made in recent months and has transmitted a list of reform priorities, including strengthening the independence of justice, combating organized crime and corruption, as well as increasing transparency in public procurement.
The European Commissioner for Enlargement mentioned that the next phase of the accession process aims at establishing the intermediate criteria and opening the other clusters, with the ultimate goal of advancing towards EU accession. The European official emphasized the positive impact on investments and the credibility of Moldova’s European path.
Marilena Raouna, Deputy Minister of European Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus, stated that the opening of cluster 1 – “Fundamental Values” represents a historic moment for the Republic of Moldova and the European Union, marking an important step in the country’s European journey. The official congratulated the Republic of Moldova, emphasizing that progress is the result of reforms, sustained work, and the commitment of citizens, even under difficult regional conditions.
The Deputy Minister for European Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus highlighted that, in recent years, the Republic of Moldova has made progress in strengthening democratic institutions, the rule of law, and combating corruption and the opening of the first cluster strengthens both the accession process and confidence in the European future. According to her, the continuation of reforms remains essential, while EU enlargement is seen as an investment in security and unity.
The decision to open accession negotiations on Cluster 1 “Fundamental Values” will be confirmed during the EU summit in Brussels, from June 18-19.
The first cluster “Fundamental Values” includes five chapters: chapter 23 – judicial system and fundamental values, chapter 24 – justice, freedom and security, chapter 5 – public procurement, chapter 18 – statistics and chapter 32 – financial control. It is the first group of negotiation chapters to be opened and the last to be closed, after the completion of all other chapters. Progress on this cluster will also determine the subsequent pace of the negotiation process.
