Moldova says Hungary blocks EU accession talks despite reforms
Photo: Moldova's President Maia Sandu (Getty Images)
Moldova's President Maia Sandu said that Chișinău is now at the stage where the next round of EU accession talks should begin, but Hungary is blocking progress, Rock FM reports.
The Moldovan President explained that Moldova's EU accession process is stalled due to Hungary's refusal to move forward in coordination with Ukraine.
Sandu noted that the country knows which reforms are needed and will continue implementing them regardless of whether the official process is open.
She emphasized that Moldova aims for full EU membership and rejects the idea of limited integration without veto rights.
The President added that current reforms focus on aligning national legislation with European standards while addressing urgent problems for the population and stimulating economic development, even amid uncertainty caused by the war in Ukraine. Moldova has a lot of work ahead, but the government is determined and has the support of parliament.
When asked about proposals to separate Moldova from Ukraine in the accession process, Sandu said the EU promotes a merit-based approach.
She highlighted that it would be proper for both countries to progress simultaneously, as this is what the EU ensures. According to her, both Moldova and Ukraine have fulfilled their obligations, confirmed by the European Commission, and she expressed hope that a solution would soon allow both countries to move to the next stage.
EU accession for Ukraine and Moldova
In September, EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos said the screening process for Ukraine and Moldova's EU accession would soon conclude for both countries.
Later, on September 29, it was reported that the process had been completed for Ukraine. However, the EU has not started accession talks with Ukraine because Hungary vetoed the corresponding decision.
Earlier, in early October, the President of the European Council, António Costa, received a letter from Members of the European Parliament urging immediate negotiations with Moldova on EU membership.
Previously, in August, Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said that Ukraine and Moldova should begin accession talks with the EU together, noting that everything is ready for this step.
