European Council President Charles Michel paid an official visit to Moldova today. He met with Moldovan President Maia Sandu.
Sandu thanked the EU for its support over the past year and said the country was ready to start accession negotiations as soon as possible.
“The European path is the only way that can ensure the survival of the Republic of Moldova as a free and prosperous country,” said Maia Sandu. “The Republic of Moldova has to cope with the hybrid attacks directed towards our determination to remain part of the free world. With all this in mind, in spite of all the difficulties, we are still devoted and committed to freedom, democracy and the rule of law. Moreover, we managed to strengthen our positions, to strengthen resilience and to become stronger.”
Charles Michel said that by summer the European Commission will propose a new support package for Moldova, as decided at the recent European Council on 23-24 March.
Charles Michel highlighted the importance of the reform path for the Moldovan government, especially in the judiciary system, the fight against corruption, and good governance. “These reforms are vital to meet the expectations of the Moldovan people and strengthen your overall sustainability,” Michel said, adding that “the country has already made significant efforts to implement the nine steps set out in the European Commission’s opinion”.
He also reminded that the EU mobilised €1 billion last year to support Moldova, which has been seriously affected by the Russian war against Ukraine and its consequences.
