Baku-APA. The European Parliament (EP) on Thursday ratified the EU-Moldova Association Agreement with an aim to create closer political ties and remove trade barriers between the EU and the former Soviet country, APA reports quoting Xinhua.
"Moldova is the latest country seeking closer ties with the EU. Today, MEPs (Members of the Parliament) vote on an association agreement with the country, paving the way for more trade and closer cooperation," said Andi Cristea, the new head of the EP's delegation for Moldova.
Including a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement, the agreement was passed by MEPs winning 535 votes to 94, with 44 abstentions.
Cristea said the agreement includes three major priorities: implementing European values and principles (democracy, the rule of law and the market economy); making improvements in the field of justice, freedom and security, including data protection and fighting corruption; and cooperating more closely on reforming public administration.
"The ratification of the EU-Moldova Association Agreement is a clear acknowledgment of the success of Moldova's political and economic reform process, which establishes its European prospects and bears witness to its determination to join the EU eventually," said EP rapporteur Petras Austrevicius.
The deal will form the backbone of strengthened political association and economic integration between the EU and Moldova and provide for mutual free market access.
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