The Republic of Moldova Advances in the EU Accession Process by Opening Negotiations on the “External Relations” Cluster

The Republic of Moldova has taken another step forward on its European path by officially opening negotiations on Cluster 6 – “External Relations”, during the Third Intergovernmental Conference between the Republic of Moldova and the European Union, held in Brussels.

The decision marks the continuation of the accession process and reflects the progress achieved by Chișinău in aligning its legislation and policies with the European Union acquis.

The Unanimous Decision of the Member States

The conference was convened after all 27 European Union Member States unanimously approved the common negotiating position for this cluster. During the meeting, the Council of the European Union presented the common position of the Member States, while the delegation of the Republic of Moldova outlined its objectives, commitments, and measures undertaken to continue aligning with European standards.

The Republic of Moldova Delegation

The Republic of Moldova was represented by a delegation led by Acting Prime Minister Eugeniu Osmochescu. At the conclusion of the conference, he participated in a joint press conference alongside European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos and Ireland’s Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne.

Messages from European Partners

Irish Minister Thomas Byrne described the occasion as a landmark moment for the European Union’s enlargement policy, praising the significant progress made by the Republic of Moldova in recent years.

“Today is a historic day for the enlargement of the European Union. The Republic of Moldova has consistently demonstrated its commitment to European values and has achieved remarkable progress. The country stands as an example of resilience and courage,” the Irish official stated.

Chișinău’s Commitment

Acting Prime Minister Eugeniu Osmochescu emphasized that the opening of negotiations on Cluster 6 represents another important milestone in the Republic of Moldova’s accession process to the European Union.

“Every negotiation chapter we open brings us closer to our goal of joining the European Union. We will continue this journey with determination, responsibility, and confidence,” the acting prime minister stated.

Ahead of the conference, Osmochescu stated that the launch of negotiations on Cluster 6 reflects the progress achieved by the Republic of Moldova in aligning its policies, legislation, and values with those of the European Union.

What Cluster 6 Includes

Cluster 6 – “External Relations” comprises two key negotiation chapters in the accession process. Chapter 30 covers the European Union’s Common Commercial Policy, while Chapter 31 addresses the Common Foreign, Security and Defence Policy.

Continuing the Accession Process

The opening of negotiations on Cluster 6 comes just one month after the launch of negotiations on Cluster 1 – “Fundamentals”, which was opened on 15 June 2026 during the Second EU–Republic of Moldova Intergovernmental Conference held in Luxembourg. This development confirms the sustained pace of the accession process and the strengthening of relations between the Republic of Moldova and the European Union.