European Commissioner for Regional Policy to pay official visit to Moldova

Chisinau, 27 February /MOLDPRES/ – During a visit to Brussels, Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration, Tudor Ulianovschi, had a meeting today with European Commissioner for Regional Policy, Corina Cretu, the MAEIE’s public diplomacy, strategic communication and media interaction service has reported.

Referring to outcome of the discussion on Moldova at the EU Foreign Affairs Council, Minister Ulianovschi stated that "The conclusions of the Council of the European Union on the Republic of Moldova are comprehensive, balanced and, besides some findings, draw the priorities for future cooperation with the EU. We are determined to make efforts to discuss the first progress already at the next meeting of the Association Council."

At her part, Commissioner Cretu appreciated "the new conclusions of the Foreign Affairs Council of the European Union on the Republic of Moldova, which recognize some progress Moldova has made. At the same time, I would like to encourage the authorities in Chisinau to continue the European path, but recalling the need to implement reforms in key areas such as fight against corruption or the reform of the judiciary."

During the discussion, there were also discussed issues related to the actions undertaken by Moldova on the extent of regional cooperation, including commitments assumed by the Moldova – EU Association Agreement. Commissioner Cretu expressed hope that Moldova would be equally committed to further regional cooperation. "Equally, it is important for Moldova to be involved as actively as possible within the EU Strategy for the Danube Region, especially as there is now a national coordinator for this programme," said the European Commissioner.

The Moldovan official has highly appreciated the financial support provided by the European Commission for the development of projects in the field of infrastructure, environment and energy.

At the end of the meeting, Minister Tudor Ulianovschi invited Commissioner Corina Cretu to make an official visit to Chisinau, invitation being accepted by European official.