The EU accession process has been a strategic priority for both Ukraine and Moldova, driving reforms and strengthening resilience amid Russia’s war of attrition against Ukraine. As both countries approach the key milestone of opening negotiation clusters, this discussion assessed their reform progress and challenges on the European path. Special attention was given to the ‘Fundamentals’ cluster, which is crucial in shaping the pace of accession talks. Additionally, this policy dialogue explored the EU’s next steps and priorities under the 2025 Polish and Danish Presidencies in this exceptional accession process.
Speakers: Ambassador Daniela Morari, Head of the Mission of the Republic of Moldova to the EU; Ambassador Vsevolod Chentsov, Head of the Mission of Ukraine to the EU; Dmytro Shulga, Programme Director for Europe and the World, International Renaissance Foundation (Kyiv); Gert Jan Koopman, Director-General, Neighbourhood and Enlargement Negotiations, DG ENEST; Halszka Lachowicz, Policy Officer, Ukraine Service, DG ENEST; Iulian Groza, Executive Director of the Institute for European Policies and Reforms (IPRE, Chișinău)
Moderator: Amanda Paul, Deputy Head of the Europe in the World Programme, European Policy Centre
