“Ukraine and Moldova are once again one step closer to the European Union. Opening two additional negotiations clusters marks significant progress, giving both countries the opportunity to implement the necessary reforms and bring their legal systems into line with EU law,” Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna said. “The future of Ukraine and Moldova lies in Europe, and Estonia consistently supports both countries on their path towards EU membership.”
“EU enlargement is a strategic investment in the security, stability and prosperity of Europe as a whole. A stronger and larger European Union has greater international influence and is more competitive. Ukraine and Moldova’s progress towards accession is an important part of achieving this goal,” Tsahkna said.
Accession negotiations with the European Union are divided into six clusters. Ukraine and Moldova had previously opened the first and sixth clusters. Today, the second cluster, covering the internal market, and the third cluster, focusing on competitiveness and inclusive growth, were opened with both countries.
Estonia believes it is important to open the two remaining clusters with both countries as soon as possible so that accession negotiations can make decisive progress.
“Today also saw the closure of three negotiation clusters with Montenegro and one with Albania, confirming that these countries are making good progress on their path towards EU membership. Montenegro has advanced furthest and could join the Union as early as 2028,” Tsahkna said.
