The EU looks forward to working in partnership with a stable and strong government and parliament of Moldova to address the challenges that the country is facing, to implement an ambitious Economic Recovery Plan and advance long-awaited reforms that are at the core of the EU-Republic of Moldova Association Agreement.
This is stated in a joint statement by the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy / Vice President Josep Borrell and Commissioner for Neighborhood and Enlargement Olivér Várhelyi on the parliamentary elections in Moldova. It notes that early parliamentary elections were held in Moldova on July 11, and voters gave a clear and strong mandate to the reform-backed Action and Solidarity Party, which is ready to embark on the ambitious agenda of President Maia Sandu. According to the preliminary findings and conclusions of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) Election Observation Mission, these elections were well administered, competitive and fundamental freedoms were largely respected. Candidates had ample opportunities to campaign and voters were provided a wide range of alternatives. The ODIHR however noted also shortcomings, throughout the campaign and on the Election Day, notably the lack of effective campaign finance oversight, political bias displayed by the majority of monitored news outlets, lack of adequate legal framework to regulate electoral dispute resolution, and the handling of electoral complaints. “Decisions regarding the number of polling stations to be established abroad and for voters residing in localities on the left bank of the Nistru river (Transnistria) as well as the issue of voter transportation raised questions about impartiality of the Central Election Commission.” The EU stated that it is ready to support the Republic of Moldova in addressing the identified shortcomings and outstanding recommendations by the OSCE/ODIHR Election Observation Mission. The EU now looks forward to working in partnership with a stable and strong government and parliament to address the challenges that the country is facing. In the joint statement by Josep Borrell and Olivér Várhelyi, it is noted that the recently announced ambitious Economic Reform Plan for Moldova will become an important factor in supporting necessary structural reforms, including in key areas of justice and the fight against corruption, and will stimulate the country's long-term socio-economic recovery. “The EU stands ready to work closely with central and local authorities, civil society and the media to support and develop an inclusive governance model. The partnership between the European Union and Moldova will continue to be aimed at providing tangible benefits to the people of Moldova,” the EU high-ranking officials said in a statement. // 13.07.2021 – InfoMarket
