Visegrad Group deputy foreign ministers urge Moldova to continue reforms

Chisinau, 6 March /MOLDPRES/ - The deputy foreign ministers of the Visegrad Group countries urged the Moldovan authorities to continue reforms in the context of European integration. They specified that they would provide support to Moldova in this process. The sides made statements to this effect in Chisinau, during a press conference today.

Deputy Foreign and European Integration Minister Iulian Groza said that during the meeting with officials of the Visegrad Group countries the sides discussed Moldova's European agenda, the implementation of the Association Agreement with the European Union and preparations for the Eastern Partnership (EaP) Summit in Riga.

Slovak Deputy Foreign Minister Peter Burian said that the Association Agreement provided "a path to implement a very ambitious reform programme." "We are here to share our experience, to define areas in which we could work together, such as the justice reform, energy sector, combating corruption, improving conditions for business development and attracting investment," said Peter Burian.

Czech Deputy Foreign Minister Ivo Sramek said that Moldova "is entering a crucial phase in the process of European integration" and the result would much depend on the Chisinau authorities’ pace.

"We are waiting for the reforms plans to be implemented. Time plays an essential role. There are three months left until the Eastern Partnership Summit takes place in Riga. It is important to bring concrete results, "said Polish Deputy Foreign Minister Konrad Pawlik.

Hungarian Deputy Foreign Minister Istvan Mikola also said that he was "waiting for the government’s results". The official expressed the hope that "Moldova will be successful in the process of European integration and will become an EU member".

The Visegrad Group deputy foreign ministers are paying a visit to Moldova on 5-6 March.

(Reporter N. Sandu, Editor M. Jantovan)