Foreign Policy Newsletter 10/248, October 2026: The Republic of Moldova, between success in EU negotiations and the test of reforms: what comes next after the opening of new clusters

The opening of the “Internal Market” and “Competitiveness and Inclusive Growth” clusters marks a new stage in the Republic of Moldova’s European journey. Beyond progress in the negotiations, the goal is to implement reforms effectively and translate them into productive investment, better-paid jobs and quality public services. The new edition of the FES/APE Foreign Policy Bulletin analyses the opportunities and challenges of this stage, focusing on business competitiveness, institutional capacity, investments under the Growth Plan and the fair distribution of adjustment costs.

In an interview, PAS MP Adrian Băluțel presents the Government’s priorities and reaffirms the objective of completing negotiations by 2028. Adrian Lupușor, Executive Director of Expert-Grup, explains why the economic success of accession depends on functioning institutions, productivity growth and support for vulnerable businesses and groups. Economist Marin Gospodarenco examines the effects of alignment with European rules on taxation, banks, businesses and the labour market. In his editorial, journalist Mădălin Necșuțu discusses the test of domestic reforms, potential political obstacles within the EU and Russian pressure.

This edition invites reflection on the conditions needed for European integration to contribute to economic modernisation, reduced inequalities and higher living standards. read the entire newsletter HERE.