Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration of the Republic of Moldova, Cristina Gherasimov: “The Opening of Negotiations on Cluster 6 Reflects the European Union’s Confidence”

The Republic of Moldova continues to make steady progress in its European Union accession process, with the opening of negotiations on Cluster 6 – “External Relations” representing another important milestone in the country’s European integration agenda

The development comes just one month after the launch of negotiations on the first cluster, highlighting the consistent pace of reforms and the close cooperation between Chișinău and the European institutions.

Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Cristina Gherasimov emphasized that Moldova’s achievements are the result of the continuous efforts of the institutions involved in the accession process, combined with the political and technical support provided by the European Union.

“The Republic of Moldova continues to move forward and achieve its objectives because it has people working tirelessly for this goal and, of course, because it has friends who believe in our European future,” the Deputy Prime Minister stated on her Facebook page.

A strategic step forward in the accession negotiations

On 14 July 2026, during the third EU–Republic of Moldova Intergovernmental Conference held in Brussels, negotiations were officially opened on Cluster 6 – “External Relations.”

This cluster covers two major negotiation chapters:

• External relations;
• Common foreign, security and defence policy.

The opening of Cluster 6 demonstrates Moldova’s preparedness and the capacity of its institutions to continue aligning national legislation and policies with the European Union acquis.

For investors and international economic partners, this milestone sends a strong signal regarding the country’s strategic direction, institutional stability, and commitment to European integration.

Recognition of the European Union’s support

Cristina Gherasimov expressed her gratitude to the European officials directly involved in the enlargement process, acknowledging their contribution to preparing and opening negotiations on Cluster 6.

The Deputy Prime Minister thanked European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos and Gert Jan Koopman, Director-General of the Directorate-General for Enlargement and Eastern Neighbourhood (DG ENEST), for their continued support, trust and assistance.

“This new step on our European path is the result of close cooperation and a joint effort. Thank you for your partnership and for the confidence you have placed in the Republic of Moldova. Together, we continue bringing Moldova closer to the European Union,” Gherasimov stated.

Her remarks underline the institutional nature of the accession process, built on continuous dialogue and cooperation between Moldova and the European Union.

An accession calendar gaining momentum

The accession negotiations entered a new phase during the summer of 2026.

On 15 June 2026, Moldova officially opened Cluster 1 – “Fundamentals” during the second EU–Republic of Moldova Intergovernmental Conference held in Luxembourg.

This first cluster constitutes the foundation of the accession process and includes key areas such as:

• rule of law;
• judicial reform and independence;
• fundamental rights;
• democratic institutions;
• anti-corruption measures;
• security and good governance.

The opening of a second cluster only one month later demonstrates the steady progress achieved by Moldova and the effectiveness of its dialogue with Brussels.

Implications for the economy and investment climate

From an economic perspective, progress in the accession negotiations extends well beyond the political sphere.

Each newly opened cluster contributes to strengthening investor confidence, increasing legislative predictability and accelerating the alignment of Moldova’s regulatory framework with European standards. At the same time, it supports administrative reforms, institutional modernization and the development of a more competitive business environment.

For the Republic of Moldova, European integration is not only a foreign policy objective but also a long-term economic transformation project capable of attracting investment, expanding trade opportunities and improving national competitiveness.

A stronger partnership with the European Union

The opening of Cluster 6 confirms Moldova’s status as an active candidate country engaged in substantive accession negotiations and demonstrates the authorities’ capacity to maintain constructive cooperation with the European institutions.

Against the current geopolitical backdrop, this development reinforces Moldova’s strategic European orientation and its commitment to implementing the reforms necessary for EU membership.

For the business community and international partners, the latest progress represents another indicator of the country’s institutional maturity and its long-term commitment to becoming part of the European economic and political family.