Ukraine – South-East Europe Summit: European leaders back Moldova’s accelerated EU accession and reaffirm support for regional security

The fifth Ukraine – South-East Europe Summit, held in Kyiv, delivered a strong political message in support of Ukraine while reaffirming the European Union’s commitment to advancing the accession processes of both the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine

The joint declaration adopted by participating leaders emphasizes that EU enlargement towards Moldova and Ukraine is a strategic investment in the long-term stability, security, and prosperity of Europe.

The summit brought together Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of the Republic of Moldova Maia Sandu, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, Romanian President Nicușor Dan, and leaders from several South-East European countries.

Moldova’s European path gains renewed political momentum

For the Republic of Moldova, the summit represents another important milestone on its European integration journey. European leaders reaffirmed that the enlargement process should continue based on the principle of individual merit and supported the rapid opening of the remaining negotiating clusters for both Moldova and Ukraine.

The declaration highlights that European integration is no longer viewed solely as a political objective but also as a key instrument for strengthening regional security amid the ongoing war in Ukraine and the broader geopolitical challenges facing Europe.

According to the joint declaration:

“The future accession to the European Union of the Western Balkan partners, as well as Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova, is a strategic investment in Europe’s long-term stability, security and prosperity.”

Continued support for Ukraine

The summit coincided with Ukraine’s Statehood Day, underlining the country’s historical continuity and its significance for European security.

Leaders strongly condemned Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and called for the immediate cessation of hostilities. They also denounced attacks targeting civilians and critical infrastructure, describing them as serious violations of international law.

The declaration states:

“There can be no lasting peace, security, stability and prosperity in Europe without a sovereign and independent Ukraine.”

Participants also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Ukraine’s air defence capabilities and mobilizing international resources to protect civilians and critical infrastructure.

EU integration as an economic opportunity

From Moldova Invest’s perspective, the summit’s outcomes extend beyond diplomacy and carry significant economic implications.

Advancing EU accession negotiations requires continued reforms in key sectors, including:

• strengthening the rule of law;
• modernizing public administration;
• improving the business environment;
• aligning legislation with the EU acquis;
• fully harmonizing with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy.

These reforms are expected to enhance investor confidence and facilitate Moldova’s deeper integration into European economic value chains.

Regional reconstruction creates new opportunities

Leaders also reiterated their commitment to supporting Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction, a process expected to generate substantial investments in infrastructure, energy, transport, industry, and digital transformation.

For the Republic of Moldova, closer European integration and participation in regional reconstruction initiatives may create new opportunities for businesses, cross-border cooperation, and sustainable economic development.

A strategic vision for Europe’s future

The Kyiv Summit confirmed that European security, economic development, and EU enlargement have become increasingly interconnected.

By reaffirming their support for Moldova’s European aspirations, European leaders sent a clear message that the country’s accession process remains a strategic priority for the European Union and a key element of long-term regional stability.