Romania blocks EU’s critical document on R. of Moldova, sources say

Romania has blocked the plans to adopt a critical document on Republic of Moldova by the EU foreign ministers, following the recent conclusions of the EU Foreign Affairs Council, European diplomats have told Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty.

The conclusions were expected to be unanimously adopted by the EU Foreign Affairs Council on December 10, without any other discussions. The diplomatic sources said that Romania, supported by Hungary, has opposed that the draft document is adopted on December 10.

Reportedly, Romania made the decision early this week, having a ‘clear position’ on the text and that the agenda on Monday will not discuss the document anymore.

According to the quoted source, the document provides that “the commitments to democratic principles, rule of law and observing the human rights are the standing stones for the EU – R. of Moldova Association Agreement. However, the developments in the Republic of Moldova, starting February, including the validation of the elections for Chisinau City Hall, have led to ‘significant concern regarding this country’s commitment. The document further read that the EU foreign ministers expect that the general elections in February 2019, in the Republic of Moldova, to be conducted according to international standards, by observing the democratic principles and by ensuring a credible, transparent and comprehensive process. The draft also expressed concern on the high number of reported cases involving tensions and intimidations in the Republic of Moldova, and requested the Moldovan authorities to ensure access to mass-media and equal chances to all candidates.

The conclusions were to be adopted after the European Commission’s decision to cut the financial support for Republic of Moldova worth about USD 22.7 million per year for 2017 and for 2018, given the concerns regarding the rule of law and of violating the democratic norms.

The Commission has also suspended the macro-financial assistance programme amounting to USD 113 million for Republic of Moldova, stiri.tvr.ro informs.