Herman Van Rompuy reiterates 'more for more' principle in Chisinau

The European Union is ready to offer further concrete support to Moldova in implementing its reforms, if the Moldovan authorities are able to show more progress and focus on priorities like fight against corruption and law enforcement reform, stated Herman Van Rompuy, the President of the European Council, at a press conference in Chisinau on Wednesday, after a meeting with Moldovan Prime Minister Vlad Filat, Info-Prim Neo reports. “The more Moldova does in terms of reforms, the more the European Union can do to help and support this process. This goes particularly for those areas which we see as priorities to consolidate Moldova's democratic developments. There are two, most important priorities: fight against corruption, and the reform of the judicial and the law enforcement systems. Further important reforms are a comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation, the improvement of the investment climate, and the reforms needed to enter negotiations on a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement”, said the EU official. Herman Van Rompuy stressed at the same time that Moldova's political stability is crucial in this period. “The recent local elections have confirmed that there is broad popular support for government reforms and for Moldova's European vocation”. He further stated that work and negotiations on the Association Agreement is “moving forward and energetically”. Herman Van Rompuy also said that the EU has started delivering on its commitment to provide 550 million euros in assistance to Moldova for 2011-2013. “In addition, Moldova is likely to receive part of the assistance that the European Union has made available for all the countries in the Neighborhood Policy, according to the principle 'more for more'. We also stand ready to support you to reform the judicial and law enforcement systems with up to 50 million euros. The Eastern Partnership, in addition to our bilateral relationship, also offers a regional framework for action and reforms, economically and politically”. Further, Herman Van Rompuy expressed his hope that the next round of 5+2 consultations on the Transnistrian issue, which is to take place in September in Moscow, will lead to the resumption of formal negotiations. “The 5+2 format is the only format able to deliver a viable solution and should therefore be respected. Moldova and its people deserve an end to this dispute that has divided the country for far too long”. Herman Van Rompuy visited Moldova on the invitation of Prime Minister Vlad Filat, also meeting with acting President Marian Lupu and representatives of parliamentary factions.