Moldova formally opened Cluster 1 (Fundamentals) in EU accession negotiations on 15 June 2026, a milestone celebrated at a press conference by the Cypriot Presidency, European Commission, and Moldovan leadership. Deputy Minister Marilena Raouna of the Cypriot Presidency hailed the achievement as a result of Moldova's 'impressive reform effort' under 'adverse circumstances and interference,' stressing that enlargement serves as 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,' stating 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.