Moldova is preparing for the opening of negotiations on the first group of chapters – Fundamental Values, Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Cristina Gerasimov announced, quoted by IPN.

The "Fundamental Values" cluster is the group of chapters with which negotiations are opened and the last one with which they are closed. "The progress made on these chapters, which includes fundamental elements, such as the rule of law, justice, public administration reform, functioning of democratic institutions, depends on the pace at which the negotiations on Moldova's accession to the European Union will take place," stressed Cristina Gerasimov.

The Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration noted that the teams of civil servants working on these documents within the working groups over the last few weeks prepared the draft negotiating positions that last week were discussed by members of the Interinstitutional Council and the Cabinet of Ministers.

In order to ensure a transparent and inclusive process, civil society, business associations, academia and political parties were invited to the discussions held last week.

"The negotiating position is the key document through which Moldova details the way and deadlines we propose to adopt and implement the European norms and standards by which all the EU member states abide," said Cristina Gerasimov.

On February 3-4, the delegation of the Republic of Moldova analyzed in Brussels Chapter 9 – Financial Services, and Chapter 30 – External Relations. During the bilateral screening, the progress made by the Republic of Moldova in developing the areas related to financial services, especially in the banking, insurance and capital market sectors, was presented.

On February 5, the bilateral screening sessions in Brussels continued with Chapter 30 – External Relations. The national legislation on trade, humanitarian and development assistance policy in relation to European policies and standards was analyzed.