Bucharest – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Romania welcomed the publication by the European Commission of the annual package on the enlargement of the European Union, which includes evaluation reports for the six partners in the Western Balkans and Turkey, as well as country reports for the Republic of Moldova, Ukraine, and Georgia.
The MFA emphasizes that EU enlargement remains an essential geopolitical tool for common security, prosperity, and safety, being strengthened by common values and identity. The enlargement process is based on merits and the concrete progress of each state, with a focus on sustainable reforms, respect for the rule of law and fundamental rights, as well as a clear orientation towards the European Union.
The Ministry highlighted the accelerated pace of the Republic of Moldova in implementing reforms and strengthening cooperation with the EU, despite hybrid threats. At the same time, the MFA noted the firm commitment of the authorities in Chișinău, reaffirmed through the parliamentary elections on September 28, 2025, as well as the ambitious goal of completing accession negotiations by the beginning of 2028, starting with clusters 1, 2, and 6.
Romania reaffirms its strong support for the European path of the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine, advocating for the opening of negotiations for cluster 1 and, subsequently, for the other clusters. The MFA also welcomed the progress of partners in the Western Balkans, including advanced negotiations with Montenegro and Albania, and emphasized the importance of continuing reforms at a rapid pace. Support for Turkey, as a candidate state and strategic partner, remains a priority as well.
For the first time, the Enlargement Package also mentions the importance of the Black Sea region, through a strategic approach aimed at ensuring security, stability, connectivity, and growth, connecting Europe with the South Caucasus and Central Asia. The MFA appreciates this strategy as a factor that will strengthen the geopolitical role of the EU and bring concrete benefits to regional partners.
The recommendations of the European Commission will serve as an important benchmark for discussions in the EU Council, guiding the next steps in the European path of candidate states. (4.11.2025)
