The European Union firmly supports Moldova’s European path, but the success of accession depends on the continuity of reforms and the consolidation of domestic democratic support, European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos said today during an official visit to Chișinău.
At a joint press conference with Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Cristina Gherasimov, the EU official praised the accelerated pace of reforms in Moldova, noting that the country has made progress “ten times faster” compared to the past three decades. Marta Kos emphasized that EU membership by 2028 remains a realistic goal, provided that authorities continue implementing the committed reforms.
“Technical accession negotiations could be completed by the end of 2028, but success depends on the continuity of reforms. The European Union’s support is firm and consistent, yet the country’s transformation must be backed by the internal will of authorities and citizens,” stated Marta Kos.
Financial Support and Transparency
The Commissioner highlighted that the EU’s political and financial support is materialized through the 1.9 billion-euro Growth Plan for Moldova’s modernization. Approximately 300 million euros have already been disbursed to fund infrastructure projects, support the business environment, and improve living standards across all districts of the country.
Marta Kos stressed that EU funds will be allocated under strict transparency rules and that project implementation will be publicly monitored by citizens.
Political Context and External Interference
Against the backdrop of concerns about Russian interference in Moldova’s internal affairs, the Enlargement Commissioner emphasized that the most effective response is strengthening pro-European forces in the upcoming parliamentary elections in September.
“The best response to Russian interference is for pro-European forces to win, ensuring a Parliament and Government capable of continuing reforms. This is a competition between two systems: on one side democracy, the rule of law, and human rights—core values of the European Union; on the other side, an autocratic system that seeks to keep the country dependent and economically weak,” said Marta Kos.
Solidarity and National Responsibility
Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Cristina Gherasimov welcomed Marta Kos’s visit as a clear sign of solidarity and support for Moldova’s European course.
“The accession process is, above all, a process of profound transformation of our state, economy, and society. Europe supports us, but it is our responsibility to continue reforms and demonstrate that Moldova is ready for accession,” said Gherasimov.
Visit Agenda
The European Commissioner for Enlargement is on an official visit to Moldova from September 3 to 5. Today, she met with President Maia Sandu and Prime Minister Dorin Recean. In the coming days, Marta Kos will meet investors and entrepreneurs to discuss the country’s economic prospects and will visit cultural and religious heritage sites. This marks the third visit of the European Commissioner to Moldova this year.
