Moldova to Participate in Inaugural EU Enlargement Forum in Brussels

Inaugural Forum to Address EU's Future

The Republic of Moldova will participate in the first EU Enlargement Forum, scheduled to take place on November 18, 2025, in Brussels. Organized by the European Commission, this landmark event aims to elevate the discussion on EU enlargement as a shared political, societal, and generational project. The forum will bring together European leaders, representatives from candidate countries, and experts to deliberate on the future trajectory of the European Union.

The event will be hosted by Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos and will feature an opening video message from European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, with a concluding speech by European Council President António Costa. The forum's slogan, 'By enlarging the Union, we secure our future' or 'Completing the Union, Securing Our Future,' underscores the strategic importance placed on the enlargement process.

Moldova's Representation and European Path

Ambassador Daniela Morari will represent the Republic of Moldova at the forum, also participating in a high-level debate organized by the European Centre for Political Studies on the eve of the main event. Diplomats from other candidate countries, including Montenegro, Albania, Kosovo, and Ukraine, along with Gert Jan Koopman, Director-General of the Directorate for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Negotiations (DG NEAR), are also expected to attend the discussions.

Moldova's journey towards EU membership has seen significant progress. The country was officially granted candidate status by the EU on June 23, 2022, following its application in March 2022. Accession negotiations officially commenced on June 25, 2024, simultaneously with Ukraine. Furthermore, a nationwide constitutional referendum held on October 20, 2024, saw Moldovan citizens approve an amendment to the constitution to include the aim of becoming an EU member state, with a narrow majority of votes in favor of the country's EU aspirations. Moldova has set target dates for EU accession, aiming for either 2028 or 2030.

Enlargement as a Strategic Imperative

The European Commission emphasizes that enlargement is crucial for the Union's ability to project stability, prosperity, and democratic values both within and beyond its borders. The process is seen as strengthening the EU's strategic interests, supporting economic growth, enhancing energy security, and anchoring reforms in governance and the rule of law. The renewed momentum for enlargement is a cornerstone of the 2024–2029 European Commission strategic vision, particularly in the wake of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, which has profoundly altered Europe's geopolitical landscape.

The forum is designed to be interactive, inclusive, and forward-looking, reflecting a broader effort to engage citizens and foster a truly European conversation about the Union's future. This initiative highlights the EU's commitment to moving from ambition to delivery with a credible, merit-based, and inclusive approach to enlargement.