The EU formally opened Cluster 1 (Fundamentals) in accession negotiations with Moldova at an intergovernmental conference on 15 June 2026, the Cypriot Presidency, European Commission, and Moldovan leadership announced at a joint press conference. Deputy Minister Marilena Raouna (Cypriot Presidency) hailed the milestone as a result of Moldova's 'impressive reform effort' under 'adverse circumstances and interference,' stressing that enlargement is a 'security guarantee' for a divided Cyprus. EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos praised Moldova as 'among the best performing EU candidate countries' and urged the Council to open the remaining five clusters before summer. Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu highlighted Moldova's progress on justice reform, anti-corruption, and electoral resilience despite 'extraordinary pressure,' noting that 'Moldova delivers and the EU recognises progress.' On gradual integration, Munteanu said Moldova wants a 'roadmap to full membership' and is open to intermediate steps. Commissioner Kos added that Moldova would contribute to EU security, as adversaries could 'weaponize the country against us' if left outside. Asked about Ukraine-Moldova dynamics, Munteanu stressed they are 'good neighbors' with synergies, not competitors. The next step is interim benchmarks before chapter closures. Affected stakeholders include Moldovan citizens, EU investors (€1 billion pledged at recent conference), and EU member states debating methodology reforms.