Republic of Moldova: Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the EU on the parliamentary elections 20:35 Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the EU on[...]

On Sunday, 28 September, the citizens of the Republic of Moldova exercised their democratic right to vote in the parliamentary elections. The election results confirm the people's enduring support for the European future of the Republic of Moldova, as enshrined in its Constitution. The voters have given a clear and strong mandate to continue the Republic of Moldova's determined engagement towards EU membership.

According to the preliminary findings and conclusions of the OSCE/ODIHR, these elections were competitive, offered clear political alternatives, and were well organized, supported by a sound legal framework. Newly implemented laws and candidate eligibility requirements caused some issues, although the Central Electoral Commission has been forthcoming in solving them. The electoral campaign and the voting itself took place in a context of unprecedented and multi-faceted interference and pressure from Russia, as also noted by OSCE/ODIHR.

The EU strongly condemns relentless hybrid attacks by Russia and its proxies aimed at undermining the rule of law and democratic process in the Republic of Moldova, fostering destabilization in the country and fuelling polarization through massive use of disinformation, vote-buying, cyber-attacks, and training of violent provocateurs. We commend the citizens of the Republic of Moldova for their resilience and determination to resist Moscow's malign interference and for safeguarding their choice. The EU also commends the relevant institutions of Republic of Moldova for their efforts in ensuring the integrity of the elections, despite sustained external manipulation and pressure.

The EU looks forward to working closely with the new Parliament and incoming Government to advance EU accession and the implementation of the Reform Agenda, as well as enhancing the country's resilience and economic growth.

The future of the Republic of Moldova and its citizens lies within the European Union. We commend the Republic of Moldova for the quality and fast pace of its accession-related reforms and welcome the significant progress achieved so far. We stand ready to take the next steps in the accession process in line with the merit-based approach, and to further advance the accession negotiations.