Moldova

The relationship between the Republic of Moldova and the European Union (EU) dates back three decades. It began in 1994 with the signing of the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between the European Communities, their Member States, and Moldova. In 2014, Moldova took a significant step forward by signing an Association Agreement with the EU and the European Atomic Energy Community, establishing a foundation for deeper political association and economic integration. On 3 March 2022, Moldova officially submitted its application for EU membership. Following a recommendation from the European Commission to grant Moldova candidate status and a clear path toward EU accession, the European Council approved its candidacy. Recognising Moldova’s significant progress in meeting EU membership criteria – especially the political standards set by the Copenhagen European Council in 1993 – the European Council also decided to initiate accession negotiations. This decision aligns with Moldova’s commitments under the EU-Moldova Association Agreement, including the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area. A Negotiating Framework has been adopted, and Moldova is now actively working to align its laws and standards with EU regulations, striving to become a full member of the EU.