President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola addressed Moldova’s Parliament in Chișinău at the start of its legislative term, emphasizing the institution’s ongoing support for Moldova’s efforts to join the European Union.
In her speech, Metsola reflected on her previous visit and reaffirmed the EU’s commitment: “If three years ago, we spoke of candidate status as a beginning, today I am here to speak about accession as a project. The European promise is no longer a distant idea on the horizon. We have, at this moment, a powerful window of opportunity – and there is momentum. For Moldova and its people, it is taking shape. It is real, and it is happening now. This is thanks to your country’s courage, the determination of your leaders and the conviction of your people. Thank you for this.”
She highlighted recent parliamentary elections as an important step toward Europe: “It’s that same courage that still defines Moldova today. And so, I cannot begin without acknowledging the historic results of your parliamentary elections in September. For the third consecutive time, Moldova chose European path. And now you have a right – and a responsibility – to see this through. And I am here to say that we will be with you, as your friends, every step of the way.”
Metsola noted Moldova’s progress on EU accession requirements: “Your progress is already remarkable. And the annual Enlargement Package that was published three days ago confirms precisely this. You’ve successfully completed the screening process; you’ve adopted key roadmaps to strengthen the rule of law and democratic institutions; you’ve met the conditions to open the most crucial accession negotiation clusters; and you’re well on your way to open all clusters before the end of the year.”
She also addressed energy policy changes following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine by stating that Moldova had moved away from Russian energy dependency in favor of more reliable partners within Europe.
The President announced new institutional support: “That is why I am proud to announce that we are officially opening a Permanent Representation Office of the European Parliament in Chișinău – a clear sign of our commitment to the Eastern Partnership countries and Moldova’s journey towards EU membership.” She added that this office would provide practical assistance during Moldova’s accession process.
Metsola outlined financial support measures for Moldova: “We’ve just disbursed 18.9 million Euro under our Reform and Growth Facility which follows the 270 million Euro in pre-financing. We’ve revised the EU-Moldova Free Trade Area to ensure long-term stability and to deepen your country’s integration in the Single Market. And we’ve supported Moldova’s entry into the Single Euro Payments and ‘Roam like at home’ areas – so that young people in Moldova have …the same chance to reach their potential – as everyone else throughout Europe.”
She underscored enlargement as an important strategic tool for peace and stability: “But the truth is: enlargement is, was, and remains, our strongest geopolitical tool…an enlarged European Union that is based on clear objectives, criteria and merit, is best investment in peace, security…Europe needs Moldova just as Moldova needs Europe.”
Metsola referenced broad public support across Europe for further enlargement according to recent surveys showing strong majorities—including among young people—in favor.
She recalled recent visits by other European leaders such as Friedrich Merz (Germany), Emmanuel Macron (France), and Donald Tusk (Poland) who expressed unity regarding Moldova’s future within Europe.
Quoting Moldovan President Maia Sandu she said: “If this is a marathon, it must have a finish line – not moving goalposts”. Metsola added: “Time and again, Moldova and its people have shown outstanding commitment…It is Europe’s turn to respond…The time has come to open accession negotiations.”
The speech concluded with Metsola assuring continued backing from Brussels: “The European Parliament cannot…close door to that dream…This is history we will write together – and I want assure you…the European Parliament will remain with you every step of way.”
