How Lithuania gained EU membership and what should Moldova do to follow suit, according to Lithuanian Speaker

Lithuania became a member of the European Union due to several favorable factors: it was offered the prospect of becoming a member of the European family, it had the support of the Northen States, and it was led by a pro-Western political force. To become a EU member as well, Moldova needs to be offered a similar prospect, but it also needs to step up Euro-integration reforms, in particular in the judicial system and in fighting against corruption, stated the Speaker of the Lithuanian Seimas Irena Degutienė in an interview with Info-Prim Neo. “Lithuania’s ambition in reformation was fed by EU’s decision to offer Lithuania the prospect of becoming a member of the Community. In order to do so, Lithuania had to accept the European rules which, consequently, contributed to realizing our country’s economic and political reforms. Our vicinity to the Baltic Sea played a great role, since the Northern states wanted the Baltic countries to become members of the European family. The Northern countries shared their positive experiences with the Baltic States and secured diplomatic support in EU’s political decision-making process”, said Irena Degutienė. In her opinion, internal political factors also played a great role. “On its path to political independence, Lithuania was led by a patriotically-driven pro-Western political force, whose primary goal was to rid the country of planned economics”, explained Irena Degutienė. The Lithuanian official believes that Moldova also needs to be given a clear prospect of joining the EU: “Lithuania has always advocated that EU offers Moldova the prospect of the EU membership. I think it is just a matter of time until this happens”. Irena Degutienė believes that Moldova’s European integration is an irreversible process. “Lithuania is pleased by the steady negotiations between Moldova and the EU on the Association Agreement and the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement. We also appreciate Moldova’s efforts in obtaining a liberalized visa regime with the EU. It is important that Moldova maintains its pace, and dedicates all efforts to the accomplishment of Euro-integration reforms, especially the reforms of the judicial system and fight against corruption. We are willing to continue supporting Moldova’s pro-European ambitions. I believe that Moldova’s European integration is an irreversible process”, said Irena Degutienė, the Speaker of the Lithuanian Seimas, in her interview with Info-Prim Neo. The interview was occasioned by the 20th anniversary of the establishment of Moldo-Lithianian diplomatic ties on 10 July 1992.