The EU’s Foreign Affairs Council underlined the need to step up reforms in governance, justice, the fight against corruption, economic reform and the business environment in the six Eastern Partnership countries. It expressed particular concern over the situation in the Republic of Moldova, IPN reports.

According to the portal EU-Neighbours, the EU’s Foreign Affairs Council discussed the Eastern Partnership ahead of the Eastern Partnership ministerial meeting in October this year. Foreign ministers reaffirmed the commitment of the EU to the region, to the reform agenda and to the priorities identified as the '20 deliverables for 2020', to achieve stronger economy, governance, connectivity and society.

The Council confirmed the continuing relevance of the tailored-made and differentiated approach, allowing each of the six countries (Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine) to choose the level of ambition they aspire to in their relations with the EU.

EU Ministers noted the progress made in the six countries. They also underlined the need to step up reforms in areas such as governance, justice, the fight against corruption, economic reform and the business environment. They expressed particular concern over the situation in the Republic of Moldova.

Finally, ministers highlighted the importance of using the opportunity of the 10th anniversary of the partnership in 2019 to highlight the EU’s commitment to the region.