On the initiative of the Socialists and Democrats, the European Parliament today debated the best ways to support Moldova in the current challenging times. Since Russia invaded, more than 440,000 refugees from Ukraine crossed the border into Moldova, 100,000 of whom remain in the country. A huge effort for a country of just 2.7 million people. 

Supporting the European ambition of Moldova, the Socialists and Democrats urged the Commission to continue providing more support to Moldova to deal with the arrival of refugees. The EU should also help Moldova to maintain macro-economic stability and guarantee energy security, as well as assisting them to carry through their ambitious reforms in the areas of democracy and rule of law.

Juozas Olekas MEP, the S&D negotiator on the Moldova resolution, said in the debate:

“Moldova, one of the least well-off European countries, is hosting the largest number of refugees in relation to its population. We call on the EU to continue its efforts to provide support to Moldova so that Moldovans can continue to help their Ukrainian neighbours. The EU should step up its financial efforts to help stabilise the country’s economy in the face of the refugee crisis.

“I strongly welcome Moldova’s European aspirations. I know that the accession process may be long and painful, but I believe that granting the country candidate status would be a strong political signal for all pro-European forces in the country.”

Tonino Picula MEP, S&D spokesperson on foreign affairs, added: 

“The recent security incidents in the Transnistrian region and the mandatory military mobilisation clearly show how fragile the security situation in this area is. Russia has an abiding interest in destabilising Moldova. We praise the measured reaction of Moldova’s leaders, which contributed to the de-escalation of the already-challenging situation.

“When it comes to the application for EU membership, we welcome this step and call on the Commission to swiftly assess it, respecting established procedure and on the basis of merit.  

“Moldova has shown its support for Ukraine and its commitment to European values. We now need to increase our support for Moldova in this challenging situation. The EU stands by Ukraine. The EU should also stand by Moldova.”