The European Union is interested to see in Moldova a stable government and a solid majority in parliament where politicians cooperate to the benefit of the people, stated Johannes Hahn in conclusion of his one-day visit to Moldova. In Chisinau, the European Commissioner for Enlargement met with the leaders of the parliamentary groups ACUM, PSRM and PDM, with prime minister Pavel Filip and president Igor Dodon.

Johannes Hahn told reporters he was surprised to learn that no formal talks were held to the present day to negotiate a parliamentary majority and a Cabinet. “In a democracy it is normal for a coalition government to exist, which involves each member party giving up a little something for a greater cause”.

According to the EU official, none of the three major parties should be excluded from the negotiation process.

“Any government should remain committed to democracy, rule of law, observance of human rights, freedom of the media. Any government should remain committed to market economy and the key obligations under the (Association) Agreement that Moldova signed with the European Union. These will be the main criteria to be used in assessing the future government”, stated Johannes Hahn.

According to the European official, in case of snap elections, there is a risk that the International Monetary Fund could suspend its program for Moldova, with consequences for the financial assistance provided by the European Union. “After all the discussions I had today, I think it wouldn’t be such big a problem to reach an agreement if there is enough political will, courage and responsibility on all sides,” Johannes Hahn said.

As for the EU macrofinancial assistance, the official said its unfreezing depends on the fulfillment of the conditions advanced in September 2018. While some have been fulfilled, others remain outstanding, and Hahn believes the formation of a stable government is instrumental in fulfilling them.

Asked about a possible coalition between the Democratic Party and the Party of Socialists, Johannes Hahn said that what matters to the EU is the government’s agenda and the concrete steps that will bring Moldova closer to the democratic standards and the rule of law. “Our interest is to have a neighbor that is prosperous, stable and peaceful, and this is what we expect from the future government,” said Johannes Hahn.