In Berlin, Chancellor Angela Merkel welcomed Iurie Leanca, Moldova’s Prime Minister, with military honours. Their meeting focused on Moldova’s relations with the EU. With respect to the Association Agreement and free trade agreement with the EU, Angela Merkel said, “I am impressed by what Moldova has achieved.” The country’s optimism on its way towards the EU is also remarkable, she added.

Iurie Leanca has been head of government of the Republic of Moldova since April 2013. He previously served as foreign minister. From 2005 to 2007 he worked for the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities.

On a pro-European course

The fact that Moldova has already ratified the Agreement is an indication, “that there is a majority that very actively seeks to move closer to the European Union and that wants to see a pro-European course,” said the Chancellor. During her meeting with Iurie Leanca, she learned that the people of Moldova particularly welcome the freedom from visas within the Schengen area. This again illustrates that the Association Agreement has been welcomed by the people, she said.

The free trade and Association Agreement signed on 27 June 2014 steps up Moldova’s economic and political relations to the EU. It targets cooperation in the fields of trade, energy and foreign policy, and is intended to strengthen peace, stability and prosperity in the EU’s neighbouring countries. Cooperation is based on shared values including democracy, the rule of law, fundamental liberties and human rights.

Practical implementation of the Agreement

The Chancellor reported that the two heads of government had discussed the swift practical implementation of the provisions of the Association Agreement. This includes Moldova’s difficult trading relations with Russia.

“We also discussed how we in the EU can use talks if necessary to help prevent these difficulties impacting so negatively. It must be said, however, that there are a few major obstacles to this,” said Angela Merkel.

Now that the Agreement has been signed, reform processes in Moldova can push ahead, said Angela Merkel and her Moldovan counterpart. The Chancellor sees one priority as the reorganisation of the legal system. “The aim must now be of course to achieve genuine implementation with the relevant authorities, both in terms of jurisdiction and in terms of ensuring that people have the feeling that the system is just and correct”.

Overcoming the conflict over Trans-Dniester

The situation in Moldova was also discussed. “The Trans-Dniester conflict has often been on the agenda when we talk,” stated the Chancellor. “And in talks with the Russian President I will continue to push for a sensible solution.”

The Republic of Moldova and the Federal Republic of Germany enjoy good relations. Last year marked the twentieth anniversary of the assumption of diplomatic relations. Germany is an important partner for Moldova in its efforts to move closer to Europe.