Remarks by the President of the European Council António Costa during his visit in Chișinău
„I am very pleased to be here in Chișinău today, on this very symbolic day. Three years ago, you, Madam President, signed Moldova’s formal application to join the European Union. Since then, Moldova has undergone a transformative journey, moving steadily closer to the European Union. I am impressed by how much your country has achieved in these three challenging years. I pay tribute to all of those who have been working hard to make that path a success – local and national authorities, economic actors, civil society, young generations.
Moldova is living a defining moment on its path to the European Union – one that will profoundly shape its future for generations to come. Moldovans have chosen a European future and have shown their commitment to democracy, freedom and a better life for their children.
Some seek to undermine Moldova’s path to progress, prosperity and stability through energy blackmail, fake news and hybrid attacks. But the people of Moldova have stood up and strengthened the country’s European path in the referendum just a few months ago.
The European Union has demonstrated that we stand with the Moldovan people through challenges and crises. You can count on us as a predictable and reliable partner. The European Union and Moldova will continue to stand firmly for peace, working shoulder to shoulder to shape our shared future on our own terms – with no interference and no one deciding for us.
The European Union accession process is rigorous and demanding, but it is not just a promise of tomorrow – it is a partnership for today. A partnership built with trust, with confidence, with a strategic outlook.
I am very pleased that, last week, the Council of the European Union and the European Parliament reached a political agreement on the financial pillar of the Moldova Growth Plan. Once adopted, and based on its reform track record, the European Union will provide €1.9 billion to Moldova to boost its economy, to attract investment and to promote growth. This will be the largest European Union financial support package since Moldova’s independence. The prefinancing package of around €300 million can possibly, therefore, already be disbursed by the end of April.
Finally, let me say a word about the energy situation. The weaponisation of energy is unacceptable. Economic coercion is unacceptable. We stand together. The European Union and its member states stand ready to support Moldova in achieving full independence on energy.
Most importantly, as a first step, the priority is to reduce energy costs for all Moldovans, particularly for the most vulnerable households, as well as for schools, hospitals and businesses. We will help. Just as we helped in Moldova’s Transnistrian Region. Together, we averted a humanitarian crisis. The European Union’s offer of €60 million for Moldovan citizens on the left bank remains on the table.
I would like to thank you once again for your warm welcome and for the hospitality of the Moldovan people. Moldova belongs to the European family. Together we prosper. United we are stronger. Thank you.”
