Vice-Minister Mitkus: The opening of the 'Fundamentals' accession negotiation cluster with Moldova and Ukraine marks a new stage in both countries’ integration into the EU[...]

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On 15 June, the Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs Sigitas Mitkus participated in the Intergovernmental Conferences with Ukraine and Moldova in Luxembourg, during which negotiations on the 'Fundamentals' cluster were formally launched.

The Vice-Minister noted that Ukraine's European future is a strategic investment in Europe's future.

"The European project will only be completed with Ukraine, and its membership will make our Union stronger, safer, and more prosperous. The opening of the 'Fundamentals' cluster is both recognition of the reforms Ukraine has carried out and a reminder of the important tasks ahead, especially in the areas of the rule of law, democratic institutions, and anti-corruption," stressed Mitkus.

When congratulating Moldova on the opening of the 'Fundamentals' cluster, the Vice-Minister Mitkus stressed that Moldova has reached a major milestone on its path, demonstrating the determination of the country's people to connect their future with Europe.

"Moldova's efforts to implement reforms, strengthen democratic institutions, and build resilience to unprecedented external pressures and hybrid threats have culminated in the opening of this cluster," said the Vice-Minister.

The Vice-Minister also stressed the need to open all five remaining negotiating clusters with Ukraine and Moldova before the summer recess to maintain momentum.

The 'Fundamentals' negotiating cluster sets the foundational criteria for EU membership: the functioning of democratic institutions, the rule of law, public administration reform, and economic criteria. It is the first cluster to open and the last to close.