“What I have seen on the ground confirms that Moldova is making determined efforts on its European path under challenging circumstances”, said Mikser said.
Sven Mikser, the AFET Standing Rapporteur for the Republic of Moldova, has concluded a fact-finding visit to Chișinău and Bălți, focusing on the assessment of recent political and economic developments and the impact of European Union assistance in the region.
During his visit from 30 March to 2 April, MEP Mikser engaged with various stakeholders, including representatives from the Moldovan government, parliament, local authorities, media, and civil society organisations. His meetings included discussions with the Speaker of the Parliament, the Chair of the Standing Committee on European Integration, and leaders of opposition parliamentary factions, as well as the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration, the Minister of Justice, the Minister of Defence, and the State Secretary of the Ministry of Energy.
In Bălți, Sven Mikser met with the Mayor. He visited several EU-funded initiatives, including modernised secondary education facilities, the Centre for Innovation and Technology Transfer (NORTEK), and a recently renovated residential building. These visits highlighted the tangible benefits of EU support for local communities and underscored the importance of continued EU-Moldova collaboration.
“What I have seen on the ground confirms that Moldova is making determined efforts on its European path under challenging circumstances. EU support is delivering concrete results for citizens, from infrastructure to public services,” he said.
First-hand assessment of reforms and challenges
Based on his discussions and observations, MEP Mikser expressed his support for Moldova’s progress in implementing essential reforms in the areas of the rule of law, public administration, and economic governance. He acknowledged the commitment demonstrated by the authorities in aligning with EU standards despite facing significant external challenges, particularly the repercussions of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.
Furthermore, he underscored the importance of sustaining the momentum of these reforms, particularly in judicial independence, anti-corruption initiatives, and media pluralism. Continued advancements in these sectors are crucial for facilitating Moldova’s accession process to the European Union.
Additionally, he highlighted the substantial impact of EU financial and technical assistance, which is part of the EU’s broader support framework for Moldova. Visits to various EU-funded projects illustrated how targeted investments are making meaningful contributions to regional development, enhancing public services, and strengthening the country’s resilience.
“EU-funded projects are not abstract commitments — they translate into better healthcare, modernised infrastructure and improved living conditions. This is the European Union’s added value on the ground,” he added.
The importance of ensuring transparency, efficiency, and sustainability in the implementation of EU-funded programs was underscored, as was the necessity of ongoing engagement with local stakeholders.
MEP Mikser reaffirmed the European Parliament’s strong support for Moldova’s journey toward EU accession and its broader European aspirations. He urged EU institutions and Member States to sustain robust political, financial, and technical assistance for Moldova, particularly through initiatives to foster economic growth, resilience, and the effective implementation of reforms.
Moreover, he underscored Moldova’s strategic significance for regional stability and the European Union, especially given the evolving security environment.
The visit took place in the framework of the European Parliament’s ongoing engagement with the Republic of Moldova. As Standing Rapporteur, MEP Mikser regularly assesses developments in the country and reports to the European Parliament on progress related to EU accession and reforms.
