On April 8 the UK completed the ratification of the agreement that will forge closer political and economic ties between the EU and the Republic of Moldova. The similar agreements with Georgia and Ukraine were also ratified, IPN reports, quoting a press release of the British Embassy.

The press release says the Association Agreements are an important step towards further establishing Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine as stable, secure and prosperous democracies. They commit each country to deep and meaningful reforms including economic recovery and growth, good governance, improved respect for rule of law and human rights.

Commenting on the UK’s ratification the British Ambassador to Moldova, Mr Philip Batson said: “The UK continues to be a firm supporter of Moldova, Georgia and Ukraine and their sovereign right to make these agreements, which will promote increased prosperity and stability in the European neighborhood. The UK, alongside our EU partners, stands ready to support all three countries in their implementation of crucial reforms set out under the Association Agreements. The new Good Governance Fund announced last month for Moldova and other countries in this region will further support these reforms as well as peace and stability in the region.”

For the agreements to come into effect, all 28 EU Member States, the EU and European Atomic Energy Community must ratify them. The UK is the 15th state that ratified the Association Agreement between Moldova and the EU.