The ratification of the Association Agreement with the EU is a turning point for Moldova and possibly the most important moment since the declaration of its independence, Prime Minister Iurie Leanca said in the July 2 sitting of Parliament, where the accord will be subject to ratification, IPN reports.
The Premier underlined that the Moldovan people must celebrate this moment as the rapprochement with the EU will ensure a stable and prosperous future. The Association Agreement is an ambitious document that offers political association and economic integration and that takes the European integration of Moldova to a higher level. It is an authentic reformation agenda based on a broad program for adjusting the national legislation to the EU’s, becoming thus the foundation need for modernizing the country.
The accord focuses on the support for key reforms and economic growth and development and on cooperation in about 25 sectors. By implementing the provisions of this accord, Moldova will gradually harmonize its legislation with the EU’s. “On our path to the European Union, the Association Agreement does not represent the end. On the contrary, it is a new start. Moldova lost too much time and cannot afford to lose more. After the accord is ratified, the European integration process will become more intense and consistent,” stated Iurie Leanca.
The provisions of the Association Agreement with the EU do not run counter to Moldova’s agreements with the CIS countries concerning free trade, movement and other issues. They don’t impinge on Moldova’s constitutional status of neutrality.
In order to help Moldova achieve all its objectives, the EU provides a roadmap, instruments and financial support. “This is the EU’s method of encouraging us to do reforms and make the necessary changes. We must step up the pace of reforms if we want the European integration to gain substance and to improve the living conditions. We must build Europe at home by solving the problems of our people,” said the Premier.
In the end, Iurie Leanca noted that the membership in the European Union is the final point on Moldova’s European path.