ISTANBUL

Moldova is prepared to launch accession negotiations with the European Union on the first group of chapters concerning fundamental values after completing bilateral screening in five areas, Deputy Minister for European Integration Cristina Gherasimov said Monday.

“We appreciate the support of our partners in this process, especially that of civil society, business community and diaspora, who actively contribute to this arduous work. The efforts we make on our European path are primarily for the people,” Gherasimov said, cited by the Moldpres news agency.

She noted that judicial reforms remain central to Moldova’s European course.

“It is about functional self-governing institutions, real actions to eliminate corrupt elements in the justice system, measures that strengthen integrity among prosecutors and judges, and legislative changes that allow for the extended confiscation of assets,” she stressed.

Gherasimov noted that over two-thirds of Moldova’s exports go to EU states. The country has joined the single euro payments area and will enter the Roaming Like at Home zone in 2026.

She cited progress in energy diversification to prevent it from being used “as a tool of pressure.”

Gherasimov also cautioned that Moldova’s European path remains vulnerable, pointing to upcoming parliamentary elections as a critical test.

“Protecting the electoral process against external influences and dirty financing is an absolute priority for us, and we need tools and support to ensure a free and fair election,” she added.

Moldova was granted EU candidate status in 2022 alongside Ukraine, and both countries aim to formally start accession negotiations this year.