The European Union and the Republic of Moldova confirm their strong partnership at the 9th EU-Moldova Association Council meeting
BRUSSELS — The European Union and the Republic of Moldova have reaffirmed their strong and growing partnership following the 9th EU-Moldova Association Council meeting , held on June 4, 2025 in Brussels. The high-level talks underscored the EU’s steadfast support for Moldova’s European integration path and highlighted significant progress made in the country’s reform agenda despite ongoing regional challenges.
Chaired by Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Recean , the meeting saw a delegation from the European Union led by High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas , alongside Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos .
A Firm Commitment to EU Integration
The EU reiterated its “unwavering support” for Moldova’s accession process, praising the government’s resilience and determination to implement reforms amid mounting internal and external pressures — including economic strain, Russian hybrid threats, and political interference.
The Association Council acknowledged Moldova’s progress in aligning with the EU’s legal and policy framework — particularly in areas such as rule of law, judicial reform, and anti-corruption efforts — and expressed readiness to move forward with accession negotiations. The EU confirmed that talks on the first clusters, starting with the fundamental cluster , would begin “as soon as possible.”
This marks a key step toward formalizing Moldova’s gradual integration into the EU’s institutional and legislative architecture.
Economic Support and Institutional Cooperation
The meeting also focused on the implementation of the Moldova Growth Plan , a EUR 1.9 billion financial package designed to boost economic resilience and accelerate convergence with the EU. The plan aims to ensure that the benefits of European integration are felt across all sectors of Moldovan society.
To deepen economic ties, the EU announced that Moldova will be included in the geographical scope of the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) , facilitating smoother cross-border payments and enhancing financial integration.
In addition, both sides agreed to establish two new platforms for dialogue:
- A Joint Consultative Committee with the EU Committee of the Regions to strengthen local governance and decentralization.
- A Public Administration Reform Subcommittee , dedicated to supporting Moldova’s institutional modernization and capacity-building.
Democracy Under Pressure
The EU praised the historic decision by Moldovan citizens in the 2024 constitutional referendum to pursue EU membership, calling it a clear democratic mandate. It emphasized the importance of continued communication to inform citizens about both the opportunities and responsibilities of EU integration.
Against the backdrop of sustained Russian hybrid interference , including disinformation campaigns and energy blackmail, the EU commended Moldovan authorities for safeguarding democratic processes. With parliamentary elections scheduled for 2025 , the Council underlined the need to reinforce electoral resilience in line with international standards.
Security and Defence: Strengthening Resilience
Marking the first anniversary of the EU-Moldova Security and Defence Partnership , signed during last year’s Association Council, the EU renewed its commitment to protecting Moldova from hybrid threats.
The European Union Partnership Mission in Moldova (EUPM) was extended for two years until May 2027 , ensuring continued support for the country’s security sector reforms.
Furthermore, the EU reiterated that Moldova is the second-largest beneficiary of the European Peace Facility , having received EUR 197 million in assistance between 2021 and 2025 — underscoring the bloc’s strategic investment in peace, stability, and long-term security in the region.
Condemning Russian Aggression
In light of Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine and its destabilizing actions toward Moldova, the EU once again condemned Moscow’s weaponization of energy supplies and other coercive tactics aimed at undermining Moldova’s sovereignty.
“The EU stands in full solidarity with Moldova,” the Council stated, reaffirming its resolve to help the country navigate the complex geopolitical landscape and build a stable, democratic, and European future.
A Shared Vision for the Future
The 9th EU–Moldova Association Council concluded with a powerful message: the future of Moldova and its people lies within the European Union.
As Moldova continues its journey toward membership, the EU remains committed to supporting reforms, strengthening institutions, and defending democracy in what has become one of Europe’s most vulnerable yet determined front-line states.
On 4 June 2025, the European Union and the Republic of Moldova held their 9th Association Council Meeting where EU reiterated its unwavering support for Moldova’s EU accession process, commending the country’s determination to reform amidst significant challenges.
