As regards Moldova, the European Commission concludes that the country has a solid foundation in place to reach the stability of institutions guaranteeing democracy, the rule of law, human rights and respect for and protection of minorities; macroeconomic policies have been reasonably sound and progress has been made in strengthening the financial sector and business environment but key economic reforms remain to be undertaken; the country has established a solid basis to further alignment with the EU acquis.

On this basis, the Commission recommends that Moldova be given the perspective to become a member of the European Union. It should be granted candidate status on the understanding that steps are taken in a number of areas.

Next steps

Based on the European Commission's Opinions, the EU Member States will now have to decide unanimously on the next steps.

The applications for EU membership by Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova in light of the Commission's Opinions will be discussed at the next European Council on 23 and 24 June. In the meantime, the EU remains committed to continue to further strengthen ties and deepen their partnership to support Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia, in line with our Association Agreements and Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Areas.

Background

On 3 March 2022, Georgia and the Republic of Moldova presented their applications for EU membership.

On 7 March, the Council of the European Union invited the Commission to submit its Opinions on these applications. Ukraine received the part of the questionnaire on the political and economic criteria on 8 April 2022 and the part on the EU acquis on 13 April. Ukraine provided its replies on 17 April and on 9 May respectively. Georgia and Moldova received the first part of the questionnaire on the political and economic criteria on 11 April 2022 and the part on the EU acquis on 19 April. Moldova provided its replies on 22 April and 12 May. Georgia provided its replies on 2 and 10 May.

For More Information

Moldova: Opinion; Memo;