European Council President António Costa, speaking at a press conference on 22 June 2026 following the EU-Moldova summit in Brussels, congratulated Moldova on the opening of the first cluster of accession negotiations a week earlier and pledged continued EU support for the country's reform path.
Costa highlighted the deepening partnership across security, trade, and regional integration, and noted concrete benefits for Moldovan citizens, including cheaper bank transfers under the Single Euro Payments Area and reduced roaming charges under the 'Roam like at home' programme. He also pointed to plans for closer association with Erasmus+, investments in schools, and the extension of the DiscoverEU Rail Pass to young Moldovans. The Growth Plan, he said, is delivering tangible results and will continue to support key investment projects. Costa praised President Maia Sandu's leadership and determination, stating that the Council's decision to open negotiations reflects member states' recognition of Moldova's progress. He also noted that Moldova's expertise in countering hybrid threats has benefited other countries, and that the EU Partnership Mission in Moldova has served as a model for a similar mission in Armenia. The summit, the second between the EU and Moldova, underscored the EU's commitment to Moldova's European integration and mutual cooperation.