VIDEO | The Republic of Moldova can conclude negotiations by 2028. Marta Kos: Everything depends on the will of the citizens and the delivery of results

Completing the accession negotiations to the European Union by 2028 is an achievable goal, with one essential condition: the continuity of reforms and the real desire of citizens to advance on this path. The statement was made by the European Commissioner for Enlargement, Marta Kos, in an interview with the public radio station. The official sent an optimistic but firm message regarding the country's European future.

"For me, it is important that I can see how your country is evolving and my message this time is that you are making great progress. The hard work you have done is truly amazing. Every time we are together and discuss what we need to do, you always succeed. You should know that not all countries have made the same progress as you have and I really like that. I appreciate the serious attitude, I appreciate the commitment to move towards the European Union and, despite the fact that the work is so difficult, you are still delivering results," said Kos.

However, the European official pointed out that the current state is not enough for the Republic of Moldova to have an accelerated path. Maintaining the pace of reforms will be crucial in the next 3-4 years, a period she described as decisive for the country's European future.

"The Republic of Moldova will be able to continue advancing towards the European Union only if it continues to deliver results. And, yes, you have truly had very, very rapid developments, but what will happen in the next 3-4 years will be decisive for the future of the Republic of Moldova. Now, truly, you are implementing reforms very well, but if this speed slows down, this will also mean the loss of certain results. Democracy is based on the decision of the citizens, but also on your responsibility. Completing the negotiations by 2028 is possible if you wish it to be so," Marta Kos pointed out.

Marta Kos also spoke about the financial support provided by the European Union, emphasizing that the first tranche, of almost 300 million euros, has already reached the Republic of Moldova. The rest of the funds – out of a total package of 1,9 billion euros – will be directed towards concrete projects in infrastructure, education, health and rural development. She emphasized that Brussels is closely monitoring the spending of funds and that transparency is essential to strengthen citizens' trust in state institutions.

"This is the money of European citizens and, every time, I have to justify and explain these expenses in the Republic of Moldova. (…) Your citizens have the right to know what projects European money is spent on," the Commissioner said.

Asked about the possible risks of a reform-unfriendly government, Kos stressed that anti-European forces could slow down or even compromise the progress already made. She reiterated that European support, including financial support, remains conditional on a commitment to genuine reforms.

"If some anti-European forces could win, the process would probably not go as smoothly as it is now. These forces could take us back to the past and could jeopardize the progress we have made in recent years. If you want to be part of the European family, you need a government and a parliament, of course, that want to promote reforms. For this reason, solid reforms will always be related to our financial support," Kos warned.

Marta Kos is in the Republic of Moldova from September 3 to 5. The visit is part of efforts to support and evaluate the European integration path of the Republic of Moldova.