In a significant step towards closer ties with the European Union, Ukraine, and Moldova are poised to begin formal accession negotiations, marking a pivotal moment in their aspirations for membership. The European Commission is expected to issue a report on Wednesday recommending the opening of accession talks with both countries, paving the way for their integration into the bloc.
Moldova’s Deputy Prime Minister, Nicolae Popescu, hailed the potential recommendation as a “big milestone” for his country, emphasizing its significance in securing Moldova’s place within the EU. Echoing this sentiment, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy reaffirmed Ukraine’s commitment to EU membership, acknowledging the challenges ahead but expressing unwavering determination to adapt to EU standards.
The forthcoming report, spanning over 1,200 pages, will assess the progress made by Ukraine and Moldova in aligning their legal frameworks, institutions, and governance structures with EU standards. It will also provide updates on the accession bids of seven other countries, including Balkan states and Turkey, with Georgia potentially receiving official candidate status for the first time.
Ukraine and Moldova, granted candidate status in June 2022, have demonstrated notable progress in their reform efforts. Ukraine has completed two of seven reforms, with positive or partial advancements in five others. Moldova, on the other hand, has addressed three of the nine areas identified for reform, exhibiting good progress in three additional areas.
Moldova, with its population of approximately 2.5 million people, has garnered international attention due to its vulnerability to Russian influence, prompting closer EU scrutiny. The country’s President, Maia Sandu, has alleged plans by the Wagner Group to stage a coup, further emphasizing the importance of securing Moldova’s future within the EU.
Moldovan Deputy Prime Minister Popescu expressed confidence in a favorable outcome from the European Commission report, citing the country’s 15-year journey of alignment with EU standards. He highlighted Moldova’s accelerated efforts, establishing 35 working groups to prepare for accession talks, training civil servants on EU affairs, and initiating a screening program to identify relevant EU legislation.
Similarly, Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister has voiced optimism regarding the commission report, emphasizing Ukraine’s desire to avoid any “discount” due to the ongoing war. The country remains steadfast in its commitment to EU membership, recognizing the challenges but firmly believing in its ability to meet EU standards.
The expected recommendation to open accession talks with Ukraine and Moldova marks a significant step forward in their paths toward EU membership. It underscores the EU’s commitment to expanding its democratic and prosperous union, fostering closer ties with neighboring countries, and strengthening its geopolitical standing.