European Socialists and Democrats welcomed today's adoption by the European Parliament of the association agreement between the European Union and Moldova.
S&D vice-president responsible for communication, Tanja Fajon said:
"With the adoption of the association agreement today, the EU and the Republic of Moldova are marking yet another milestone in their relations. Moldova is making history being the first county of the Eastern Partnership to introduce a visa-free regime with the EU.
"It is extremely important that the benefits and advantages of the agreement are felt by the people. Once fully implemented it will provide better consumer protection and food safety, improved access to health services, more diverse and efficient use of energy resources and renewables and lower energy bills. Strong, reform minded governance will mean the improved functioning of the judiciary, the strengthening of the rule of law and increased transparency.
"The agreement will not only help Moldova integrate into the EU's internal market but will benefit the business sector with increased opportunities for small and medium enterprises. It will also improve trade and create investment opportunities which will contribute to economic recovery and growth.
"I strongly believe in Moldova's power to succeed in its efforts to develop a social, prosperous, just and modern society. Together, we want to build the future for Moldova in the interest of its citizens as they deserve. Moldova's future is within the European Union."
S&D vice-president responsible for foreign affairs, Knut Fleckenstein, said:
"I warmly welcome the European Parliament's ratification of the EU-Moldova association agreement as a very important step forward in our relations with this country.
"We expect that the agreement will help the Republic of Moldova to develop further, economically and socially, creating new opportunities and decent work for all.
"This is not a move against any of the EU's or Moldova's neighbours and we can only regret that Russia perceives it as a potential threat. The association agreement, including the deep and comprehensive free-trade area, is a tool for further co-operation, peace and prosperity in our shared neighbourhood."
