EN    EN  COMMISSION OF THE E UROPEAN COMMUNITIES 
Brussels, 9.12.2004 
COM(2004) 787 final 
  
Proposal for a 
COUNCIL DECISION 
on the position to be adopted by the Euro pean Communities and their Member States  
within the Cooperation Council established by the Partnership and Cooperation 
Agreement establishing a partnership betw een the European Communities and their 
Member States, of the one part, and the Re public of Moldova, of the other part, with 
regard to the adoption of a Recommendation  on the implementation of the EU-Moldova 
Action Plan 
 
 2    EXPLANATORY MEMORANDUM  
The 2002 Copenhagen European Council, closing accession negotiations with ten new States, 
recognised that enlargement presented an importa nt opportunity to take forward relations with 
neighbouring countries based on shared values , and stated that the Union remained 
determined to avoid new dividing lines in Eur ope and to promote stability and prosperity 
within and beyond the new borders of the Union. 
The Commission Communication “Wider Eur ope - Neighbourhood: A New Framework for 
Relations with our Eastern and Southern Neighbours” of March 20031 proposed the 
establishment of Action Plans with partner countries. On 16 June 2003, the Council welcomed 
this Communication and invited the Commission, with the contribu tion, where appropriate, of 
the High Representative, to pr esent proposals for Action Plans fo r all countries concerned as 
appropriate, commencing with Ukraine, Moldova,  and Southern Mediterranean partners with 
Association Agreements. 
On 14 June 2004, the Council welcomed th e Commission Communi cation “European 
Neighbourhood Policy – Strategy Paper”2. The Council also welcomed the Commission 
proposal to pursue the European Neighbourhoo d Policy (ENP) through Action Plans to be 
agreed jointly with the nei ghbouring countries concerned a nd invited the Commission to 
propose such Action Plans. Action Plans should have a minimum durati on of three years and 
be subject to renewal by mutual consent. Th ey should be based on co mmon principles but be 
differentiated, as appropriate, taking into account the specificities of each neighbour, its 
national reform processes and its relations with the EU. Action Plans should be comprehensive but at the same time identify cl early a limited number of key priorities and 
offer real incentives for reform. Action Plans should also contribute, where possible, to 
regional cooperation. The Council also defined how to advance and monitor implementation 
of action plans.  
The Commission, in close cooperation with th e Presidency and the High Representative on 
issues related to political c ooperation and the CFSP, has held exploratory talks with Moldova 
which have resulted in agreement on a draft Acti on Plan. It covers a timef rame of three years. 
Its implementation will help fu lfil the provisions in the Partnership and Cooperation 
Agreement and will contribute to an increasing ly close relationship with Moldova, involving a 
significant degree of economic integration and a deepening of political co-operation. 
Implementation of the Action Plan will significa ntly advance the approximation of Moldova’s 
legislation, norms and standards to  those of the European Union. 
The Action Plan is a broad tool for economic an d political co-operation, carrying to a further 
stage the commitments and objectives cont ained in the Partnership and Cooperation 
Agreement. 
In accordance with the Council Co nclusions of 14 June 2004, stip ulating that the Action Plans 
will be approved by the Council and subsequently  endorsed by the respective Association or 
Co-operation Councils, the Commission attaches the text of a proposal for a Council Decision 
on the position to be taken by the European Co mmunities and their Member States within the 
EU-Moldova Cooperation Council with regard to the adoption of a Recommendation on the 
implementation of the Action Plan in annex.  
                                                
 
1 COM(2003)104 
2 COM(2004)373 
 
 3    The Commission therefore requests the Council to adopt the attached proposal for a Council 
Decision. 
 
 4    Proposal for a 
COUNCIL DECISION 
on the position to be adopted by the Euro pean Communities and their Member States  
within the Cooperation Council established by the Partnership and Cooperation 
Agreement establishing a partnership betw een the European Communities and their 
Member States, of the one part, and the Re public of Moldova, of the other part, with 
regard to the adoption of a Recommendation  on the implementation of the EU-Moldova 
Action Plan 
THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION, 
Having regard to Article 2 (1) of the Counc il and Commission Decision 98/401/EC, ECSC 
and Euratom of 28 May 1998 on the conclusion of a Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, 
Having regard to the Treaty on European Union, in particular Article 15 thereof; 
Having regard to the proposal from the Commission3; 
Whereas: (1) The Partnership and Cooperation Agreemen t establishing a part nership between the 
European Communities and their Member Stat es, of the one part, and the Republic of 
Moldova, of the other part, was signed on 28 November 1994 and entered into force on 1 July 1998; 
(2) The Parties intend to agree on an EU-M oldova Action Plan, wh ich will support the 
implementation of the Partnership and C ooperation Agreement through the elaboration 
and agreement of concrete steps to wards attainment of its objectives. 
HAS DECIDED AS FOLLOWS: 
Sole Article 
The position to be adopted by the European Comm unities and their Member States within the 
Cooperation Council established by the Partnershi p and Cooperation Agreement establishing 
a partnership between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, 
and the Republic of Moldova, of the other part, with regard to the implementation of the EU-
Moldova Action Plan shall be based on the dr aft Recommendation of the Cooperation Council 
annexed to this Decision. 
                                                
 
3 OJ C , , p. 
 
 5    Done at Brussels,  
 For the Council 
 The President  
 
 6    ANNEX  
draft 
RECOMMENDATION 
on the implementation of th e EU-Moldova Action Plan  
 
The EU/Moldova Cooperation Council, Having regard to the Partnership and Coope ration Agreement establishing a partnership 
between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Moldova, of the other part, and in particular Article 82 thereof, 
Whereas: (1) Article 82 of the Partnership and Coope ration Agreement give s the Cooperation 
Council the power to make appropriate reco mmendations, for the purposes of attaining 
the objectives of the Agreement.  
(2) In terms of Article 99 of the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, the Parties shall 
take any general or specific measures re quired to fulfil thei r obligations under the 
Agreement and shall see to it that the objectives set out in  the Agreement are attained. 
(3)  The Parties to the Partnership and Coopera tion Agreement have agreed on the text of 
the EU-Moldova Action Plan. 
(4) The EU-Moldova Action Plan will support the implementation of the Partnership and 
Cooperation Agreement through the elaborati on and agreement betw een the Parties of 
concrete steps which will provide prac tical guidance for such implementation. 
(5) The Action Plan serves the dual purpose of setting out concrete steps in bringing the 
fulfilment of the Parties’ obligations set out in the Partnership and Cooperation 
Agreement, and of providing a broader framework for further strengthening EU-Moldova relations to involve a significan t measure of economic integration and a 
deepening of political cooperation, in accord ance with the overall objectives of the 
Partnership and Cooperation Agreement. 
HAS ADOPTED THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATION: 
Sole Article 
The Cooperation Council recommends that th e Parties implement the EU-Moldova Action 
Plan in annex, insofar as such implementation is  directed towards attain ment of the objectives 
of the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement.  
 
 7    Done at [...] 
For the Cooperation Council The President 
 
 8    ANNEX 
  
EU/MOLDOVA ACTION PLAN 
1. Introduction 
 
The enlargement of the European Union on 1 May 2004 has brought a historical shift for the 
Union in political, geographic and economic te rms, further reinforcing the political and 
economic interdependence between  the EU and Moldova. Enlargement offers the opportunity 
for the EU and Moldova to develop an in creasingly close relationship, going beyond co-
operation, to involve a signifi cant measure of economic inte gration and a deepening of 
political co-operation. The Europ ean Union and Moldova are determ ined to make use of this 
occasion to enhance their relations and to pr omote stability, security and well-being. The 
approach is founded on partnershi p, joint ownership and differen tiation. It will contribute to 
the further development of our strategic partnership.  
The European Neighbourhood Policy of the European Union sets ambitious objectives based 
on commitments to shared values and effec tive implementation of political, economic and 
institutional reforms.  
Moldova is invited to enter in to intensified political, securit y, economic and cultural relations 
with the EU, enhanced cross border co-opera tion and shared responsibility in conflict 
prevention and conflict resolution. One of the key objectives of this action plan will be to 
further support a viable solution to the Transnistria conflict.  
The level of ambition of the relationship w ill depend on the degree of Moldova’s commitment 
to common values as well as its capacity to im plement jointly agreed priorities. The pace of 
progress of the relationship will acknowledg e fully Moldova’s efforts and concrete 
achievements in meeting those commitments. 
This Action Plan is a first st ep in this process. The EU Mo ldova Action Plan is a political 
document laying out the strategi c objectives of the cooperation between Moldova and the EU. 
It covers a timeframe of three years. Its implementation will help fulfil the provisions in the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA ) and will encourage and support Moldova’s 
objective of further integration in to European economic and social structures. Implementation 
of the Action Plan will significantly advance the approximation of Moldovan legislation, 
norms and standards to those of  the European Union. In this context, it will build solid 
foundations for further economic integration based on the adoption and implementation of 
economic and trade-related rules and regulati ons with the potential to enhance trade, 
investment and growth. It will furthermore help to devise and implement policies and measures to promote economic growth and soci al cohesion, to reduce poverty and to protect 
the environment, thereby contributing to the long-term objective of su stainable development.
 
Moldova and the EU will cooperate clos ely in implementing this Action Plan.  
The European Union acknowledges Moldova’ s European aspirati ons and Moldova’s 
“Concept for the Integration of th e republic of Moldova into the EU”. For the near future the 
PCA remains a valid basis for EU-Moldovan cooperation.  
 
 9    New partnership perspectives  
The European Neighbourhood Policy opens  new partnership perspectives:   
• The perspective of moving be yond cooperation to a significant degree of integration, 
including through a stake in the EU’s Internal Market, and th e possibility for Moldova to 
participate progressively in key aspe cts of EU policies and programmes. 
• An upgrade in the scope and intensity of political cooperation, through further 
development of mechanisms  for political dialogue. 
• Continuing strong EU commitment  to support the settlement of  the Transnistria conflict, 
drawing on the instruments at th e EU’s disposal, and in clos e consultation with the OSCE. 
The EU is ready to consider ways to  strengthen further its engagement.  
• The opportunity for convergence of economic legislation, the opening of economies to 
each other, and the continued reduction of tr ade barriers which will stimulate investment 
and growth; 
• Increased financial support: EU financial a ssistance for Moldova will be available to 
support the actions identified in the present document. The Commission is furthermore 
proposing a new European Neighbourhood and Pa rtnership Instrument (ENPI) for this 
purpose, also covering the very important aspects of cross-borde r and trans-national 
cooperation between Moldova and th e (future) Member States.  
• Possibilities of gradual opening of or rein forced participation in certain Community 
programmes, promoting cultural, educational, en vironmental, technical and scientific links; 
• Support including technical assistance and twi nning to meet EU norms and standards, and 
targeted advice and support for legislativ e approximation through a mechanism such as 
TAIEX; 
• Deepening trade and economic relations; 
• establishing a constructive dialogue on visa co-operation between the EU and Moldova, 
including an exchange of view s on possibilities of visa facilitation in compliance with the 
acquis; 
• Opening as soon as possible a Co mmission Delegation in Moldova. 
In light of the fulfilment of the objectives of this Action Plan and of the overall evolution of 
EU – Moldova relations, consider ation will be given to the possibility of  a new contractual 
relationship. The Republic of Moldova and the Commission put forward a number of 
suggestions in this regard. Th e advisability of any new cont ractual arrangements will be 
considered in due time.  
Priorities for Action  
The Action Plan sets out a comprehensive set of  priorities in areas within the scope of the 
Partnership and Cooperation Agre ement. Among these priorities , all of which are important, 
particular attention should be given to:  
 
 10    • sustained efforts towards a viable so lution to the Transnistria conflict; 
• further strengthening the stability and effectiveness of institutions guaranteeing democracy 
and the rule of law; ensuring the democratic conduct of par liamentary elections (February 
2005) in Moldova in accordance with European standards;  
• ensuring respect for the freedom of the media and the freedom of expression; 
• further reinforcing administra tive and judicial capacity; 
• resuming cooperation with IFIs; implementi ng actions aimed at poverty reduction, to 
strengthen private sector led grow th and for fiscal sustainability; 
• improving the investment climate through approp riate structural reforms aimed at ensuring 
non-discriminatory, transparent and predic table business conditions and by the fight 
against corruption; 
• progress towards a system of efficient, co mprehensive state border management on all 
sectors of the Moldovan border incl uding the Transnistrian sector; 
• working towards the EU granting Autonomous  Trade Preferences, by ensuring effective 
control of the origin of goods from Moldova; 
• stepping up the fight against organised crim e, including trafficking in human beings; 
• ensuring the efficient management of migrat ory flows, including initiating the process 
towards conclusion of a readmission agreement between the European Community and 
Moldova.  
Progress in meeting these priorities will be  monitored in the bod ies established by the 
Partnership and Cooperation Agreement and the European Commission will issue a mid-term 
report on progress accomplished. On the basis of  this evaluation, the EU, together with 
Moldova, will review the content of the Action Plan and decide on its adaptation and renewal. The Commission will issue a second report after three years and on this basis, decisions may 
be taken on the next step in the development of  bilateral relations, incl uding the possibility of 
new contractual links.  
2.1 Political dialogue and reform 
 
Democracy and the Rule of law  
(1) Strengthen the stability and effectiveness of institutions guaranteeing democracy and 
the rule of law.  
– In the context of the efforts for a settlem ent of the Transnistria issue, ensure 
constitutional and legislative reform in line with European standards, continuing 
to draw on the expert co operation and advice of th e Venice Commission and the 
EU, and ensuring a democratic and stable constitutional framework both for citizen and state institutions in (a re-united) Moldova; 
– Ensure correct functioning of Parliament , including the reform of parliamentary 
immunity in line with proposals made by the Council of Europe. Ensure the 
 
 11    democratic conduct of Parliamentary El ections in 2005 in accordance with 
European standards and addressing remain ing shortcomings as identified by the 
OSCE / ODIHR recommendations; 
– Continue administrative reform and streng thening of local self government in line 
with European standards, notably thos e contained in the European Charter on 
Local Self government and drawing in particular on the expertise and recommendations of the Congress of Local  and Regional Authorities in Europe, 
including with regard to management of  local budgets by local administrations 
and attribution of budgetary co mpetence (resources to match 
responsibilities).Strengthen law enfor cement by increasing the efficiency of 
judiciary and the law protection bodies, respect the relevant judgments of the 
Constitutional Court.  
(2) Review existing legislation, so as to ensu re the independence and impartiality of the 
judiciary, including the impartiality and e ffectiveness of the prosecution, and to 
strengthen the capacity of the judiciary;  
– Continue and implement legislative work further to reform the judiciary in line 
with European standards; Re-examine and amend the law on the organisation of 
the judiciary with a view to ensuring its independence, impartiality and efficiency, 
including clarification of the procedure for appointment and promotion, statutory 
rights and obligations of judges; 
– Ensure implementation of the new legisl ation on the public prosecution in line 
with European standards; 
– Improve training, in particular on Hu man Rights issues and on judicial co-
operation, of judges, prosecutors and official s in the judiciary, Ministry of Justice 
administration, police and prisons  
– Develop alternative means of disput e settlement, including mediation and 
arbitration 
(3) Ensure the effectiveness of the fight against corruption.  
– Ensure progress in implementing the reco mmendations of the Council of Europe 
Group of States agains t Corruption (GRECO). 
– Complete the adoption of the necessary measures identified in the Stability Pact 
Anti-corruption Initiative self evaluation and peer review re port by the Republic 
of Moldova of April 2002. 
– Continue collaboration with International Organisations and Civil Society on the 
issue. 
– Implementation of National Strategy on pr evention and combating corruption.  
 
 12    Human rights and fundamental freedoms 
(4) Ensure respect of human rights and fundam ental freedoms, including the rights of 
persons belonging to national minorities, in  line with international and European 
standards 
– Implement actions foreseen in Moldova’s National Human Rights Action Plan 
(NHRAP) for 2004-2008 (legislative revisi ons, strengthening of institutional 
framework and raising of human rights awareness). 
– Ensure adherence to and effective imple mentation of core UN Conventions and 
related optional protocols.4  
– Ensure effective protection of rights of persons belongi ng to national minorities; 
– Appropriate response to conclusions and recommendations of relevant Council of 
Europe structures and e xperts on state of complian ce by Moldova with the 
Framework Convention for the protection of  national minorities; Put in place and 
implement legislation on anti-discrimina tion and legislation guaranteeing the 
rights of minorities, in line  with European standards; 
– Amend the law on religious denominati ons to bring it in line with the 
requirements of the European Conventi on on Human Rights and with relevant 
Council of Europe recommendations;  
– Effective execution of the judgements of the European Court of Human Rights;  
– Introduce effective pre- and non-judicial mechanisms for both dispute settlement 
and the protection of human rights; Guar antee access to information on citizens’ 
rights and adequate legal remedies. 
(5) Develop and implement an appropriate legal framework for the prevention of, and the 
fight against, the trafficki ng in human beings, and for addressing the problems faced 
by victims of trafficking  
– Revision of anti-trafficking law, includi ng the relevant elements of the new 
criminal and criminal procedure codes, to bring it fully in line  with international 
human rights standards; 
– Enhance cooperation in the framework of relevant international organisations 
(OSCE, UN) on this issue; Ratify relevant international instruments, such as the UN convention against transnational orga nised crime (“Palermo convention”) and 
its Protocol to prevent, suppress and puni sh trafficking in persons, especially 
women and children;  
                                                
 
4 Including signature and ratification of: CCPR-OP1, CCPR-OP2-DP, CEDAW-OP, CAT Declar.Art.21, 
Declar.Art.22 ,CAT-OP, MWC; and ra tification of: CRC-OP -AC, CRC-OP-SC. 
 
 13    (6) Eradication of ill-treatment and torture 
– Address effectively issue of reported  ill-treatment of  detainees by law 
enforcement officials, in particular in  pre-trial detenti on, including through 
adoption of relevant legal basis and provision of trai ning. Implementation of the 
recommendations of the Council of Europe’s Committee for the prevention of torture; 
– Enhance the human rights training of staff in police and penitentiary institutions; 
(7) Ensure respect of children’s rights.  
– Continue efforts with a view to protec ting the rights of the child by ensuring the 
implementation of the Declaration and Pl an of Action agreed at the UN Special 
Session on Children in May 2002, including the implementation of a national 
action plan; 
– Implement the relevant section in (Moldova’s) National Human Rights Action 
Plan (NHRAP) for 2004-2008;  
(8) Ensure equal treatment  
– Continue efforts to ensure the equali ty of men and women in society and 
economic life, based on non-discrimination 
(9) Ensure respect for the freedom of expression.  
– Ensure transparent relationship between th e authorities and media institutions in 
line with Council of Europe recommenda tions; State financial assistance for 
media to abide by strict and objective crit eria equally applicable to all media; 
– Put in place and implement appropriate legal framework guaranteeing the freedom 
of expression and of the media, in line  with European stan dards and on the basis 
of the recommendations of the Council of Europe.  
(10) Ensure respect for the freedom of associ ation and foster the development of civil 
society 
– Amend law on assemblies to bring it in lin e with the requirements of the European 
Convention on Human Rights; 
– Effective dialogue between the different pol itical forces of the country, following 
recommendations by the Council of Europe and making full use of the opportunities offered under their auspices; 
– Facilitate and support civi l society development, enhanced dialogue and co-
operation. 
(11) Ensure respect for Trade Unions’ rights and core labour standards 
– Continue efforts to ensure Trade Unions ’ rights and core labour standards in 
accordance with European Standards and ILO conventions.  
 
 14    (12) Ensure international Justice through the International Criminal Court 
– Ratify the Rome Statute of the Internati onal Criminal Court and make provisions 
for the necessary constitutional amendmen ts foreseen thereto in the new draft 
constitution that is being elaborat ed by the Joint Constitutional Commission. 
Ensure its unhindered implementation.  
Co-operation on foreign and security polic y, conflict prevention a nd crisis management  
(13) Strengthen political dialogue and co-operation on foreign and security policy issues 
– Continue and develop political dial ogue and cooperation with the EU on 
Transnistria, regional and international issues, including within the framework of 
Council of Europe and OSCE; 
– Work with the EU to make multilate ral institutions and conventions more 
effective, so as to reinforce global  governance, strengthen coordination in 
combating security threats and addr ess related development issues;  
– Develop co-operation on sanctions issued by the EU. 
– Conduct an active dialogue between Moldova and the EU on the implementation 
of the European Security Strategy. 
– Develop possibilities for Moldova to alig n with EU CFSP declarations, on a case-
by-case basis.  
(14) Further develop co-operation in the area of  combating terrorism ,non-proliferation of 
weapons of mass destruction and illegal arms exports  
– Cooperate to reinforce the role of the UN in the multilateral fight against 
terrorism, including through implementa tion of UNSC Resolutions 1373/01 and 
1267/01, through implementation and enforcement of the UN Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism ; work towards the establishment of an 
information exchange system between relevant judicial bodies and law 
enforcement agencies of the EU Member States and Moldova;  
– Implement the standards laid down in th e FATF’s recommenda tions on terrorist 
financing; 
– Ensure respect for human rights in  the fight against terrorism;  
– Further develop co-operation in the fight  against trafficking of arms and the 
destruction of stockpiles, in cluding with a view to the situation in Transnistria; 
– Cooperate on non-proliferation of w eapons of mass destruction, including on 
aspects related to accession to and impl ementation of relevant international 
instruments and export control regimes, in the light of the EU WMD Strategy 
adopted by the European Council in D ecember 2003 and the GAERC conclusions 
of 17 November 2003; Establish an effec tive system of national export control 
controlling export and transit of WMD related goods, including WMD end use control on dual use technologies; 
 
 15    – Develop EU – Moldova co-operation with regard to risk-based customs control 
ensuring safety and security of goods  imported, exported or in transit. 
Regional cooperation  
(15) Continue Moldova’s targeted cooperation unde r activities of the St ability Pact (SP) 
for South-East Europe, complementary to the implementation of the present EU – 
Moldova ENP Action Plan  
– Further draw on the exchange of experi ence with other South Eastern European 
countries through Moldova’s participati on in SP working tables activities; 
– Concentrate on those SP initiatives that can bring added value and contribute to 
Moldova’s domestic agenda of reforms; 
– Use existing flexibility to participate in SP activities; 
– Further progress in the implementation by Mo ldova of regional pr ojects within the 
SP, paying particular attent ion to the implementation of the bilateral Free Trade 
Agreements signed by Moldova with  SP beneficiaries countries; 
– EU support for the participation of Mol dova to the South-East European Co-
operation Process.  
2.2 Co-operation for the sett lement of the Transnistria  conflict  
(16) Sustained efforts towards a settlement of  the Transnistria conf lict, respecting the 
sovereignty and territorial integrity of  the Republic of Moldova within its 
internationally recognised borders, and guarant eeing respect for democracy, the rule 
of law and human rights. 
– Constructive participation of Moldova , together with the other party and 
mediators in the OSCE-led negotiation pro cess aimed at reaching a settlement of 
the Transnistria conflict;  
– Effective co-operation between the EU a nd Moldova towards a settlement of the 
Transnistria conflict within agreed formats, including consultation on post-
settlement arrangements and guarantees as appropriate. 
– EU to further step up its involvement in supporting the OSCE and mediators in 
this process, assist the efforts of the Joint Constitutional Commission, and to 
prepare engagement in pos t-settlement scenario; 
– EU to continue its efforts to ensure  the fulfilment by Russia of the Istanbul 
commitments with regard to Moldova. 
– Reinforce political dialogue between th e EU and Moldova on the Transnistria 
conflict. 
– Significant further progress with Ukra ine on pending border questions along the 
Transnistrian border section; stre ngthen cooperation with Ukrainian 
administration including eff ective exchange of information about flow of goods 
and people across the common border. Activ e engagement in the trilateral talks 
 
 16    Moldova - Ukraine - European Commission co ncerning measures to ensure proper 
management and control of Moldova's entir e border with Ukraine, in particular 
the Transnistria section. 
– Support the active involvement of civil society and the promotion of democratic 
values and respect for human rights. 
2.3 Economic and social reform and development  
Improve Welfare  
(17) Take significant steps to address poverty , notably by improving targeting and 
effectiveness of social assistance  
– Adopt and progress in implementation of the Economic Growth and Poverty 
Reduction Strategy Paper (EGPRSP), id entifying short term and long term 
priorities, endorsed by international donor s based on the three pillars of poverty 
reduction identified in the I-PRSP of 2002; in particular implement relevant 
conditionalities on Poverty Alleviation and on Social safety net agreed within the 
framework of the EU Food Security Programme.  
(18) Redirect public expenditure to significantly address chil d poverty and to increase 
primary school enrolment.  
– Implement relevant conditionalities on P overty Alleviation and on Social safety 
net agreed within the framework of the EU Food Security Programme. 
– Develop community based child protectio n measures in particular in the 
countryside in collaborat ion with local governments 
– Rationalise child benefits and improve effectiveness of assistance to families in 
need  
– Remove factors limiting access to education for poor families’ children and 
improve their access to primary and sec ondary education, in particular in the 
country side  
Sustain growth, consolidate public finance,  and address the issue of public debt  
(19) Strengthen economic growth and make it su stainable over the medium term.  
– As a vital step toward sustained ec onomic growth, enhance macroeconomic 
stability through a sound monetary policy aime d, i.a., at containing inflation and a 
fiscal policy aimed, i.a., at achieving debt sustainability. In this context, an early 
agreement on a new programme of reforms with the IFIs is key to securing policy credibility and to open access to concessi onal external assistan ce, including by the 
EU. 
– Achieve a long-term solution to the exte rnal debt problem through a combination 
of a rigorous and credible fiscal policy and debt rescheduli ng/restructuring in 
agreement with creditors. 
 
 17    – Adopt a comprehensive MTFF, coveri ng the 2004-2006 period, integrating the 
central government budget, the local government budgets, the public social 
insurance budget, extra-budgetary funds as well as external fi nancial assistance. 
The MTFF will be based on sound macr o-economic projections, and will be 
consistent with the EGPRSP and the progra mmes to be agreed with the IFIs. In 
addition contingent liabilities should be carefully monitored. 
– Make progress in reducing the burden of  excessive public debt, in particular 
foreign debt.  
– Take concrete steps to improve public expe nditure effectiveness, transparency and 
accountability in consultation with IFIs/E U experts. In particular, enhance the 
incidence on poverty of social spending. Ta ke steps to improve revenue collection 
and broaden the tax base, particularly by gradually eliminating tax exemptions.  
– Establishment of procedures for the dete ction, treatment and follow-up of cases of 
(suspected) fraud and other ir regularities affecting nationa l and international funds  
– Ensure full compatibility of EG PRSP with Medium Term Fiscal Framework 
which guarantee fiscal sustainability 
Functioning Market Economy  
(20) Improve functioning market economy and business climate through appropriate 
structural reforms aimed also  at achieving transparency and predictability of business 
conditions 
Further advance implementation of legislative and regulatory framewor k as envisaged in 
Art.50 of the PCA.  
– Take measures to improve convergence in  key areas of Moldovan legislation to 
EU legislation, notably in the areas identif ied in this Action Plan. Draw up a work 
programme for regulatory reform, based on (1) a list of actions to be taken and 
legislation to be targeted by order of pr iority, and (2) definition of responsible 
bodies with realistic dead-lines for imple mentation of such actions, backed up by 
appropriate financial and human resources and training as well as structures to 
ensure co-ordination between various administrative bodies. 
– Ensure that basic regulatory bodies are fully operational. Draw up a programme 
for ‘flanking’ measures, including improve d standards of drafting of legal norms 
and regulations, ensuring appropriately functioning of regulatory bodies and 
accompanying implementation measures. 
– Streamline administrative requirements for companies (approval of relevant 
legislation; implementation; simp lification of reporting schemes and 
administrative obligations, limit to essentials licensing and issuing of permits necessary to conduct economic activity) 
– Examine and implement best practice on consultation and notification of 
economic operators on new regulatory measures (transparency) and ensure 
sufficient time for adaptation to these new regulations (predictab ility) of business. 
Develop dialogue with investors and en trepreneurs on how to improve business 
climate. 
 
 18    – Establish a suitable environment for companies, e.g. adopt and implement 
effectively competition and bankruptcy legislation.  
(21) Implementation of privatisation programme , covering in particular outstanding large-
scale privatisation as a priority and the energy sector. 
– Continue to improve the inte rface between Public and Priv ate sector in line with 
WB recommendation  
– Accelerate and increase transparency of  privatisation programme, covering in 
particular large scale priv atisation in key sectors. 
Regional and rural development  
(22) Promote balanced regional development; reduce economic and social disparities 
across the country 
– Implement measures on regional and rura l development, taking as a basis the 
approach envisaged in the EG-PRSP and us ing an integrated approach that builds 
on results of donors’ past activity in the c ountry, as well as on EU best practice.  
– Develop plan and undertake specific act ions to promote growth of SMEs in 
regions and in rural areas (see also SMEs below). 
Employment and social policy  
(23) Strengthen dialogue and co-operation on social matters. Ensure a closer 
approximation of the country  to EU standards and prac tices in the area of 
employment and social policy  
– Engage in a dialogue on employment and so cial policy with a view to develop an 
analysis and assessment of the situation and to identify key ch allenges and policy 
responses (social and civil dialogue, health and safety at work, gender equality, 
labour law, employment policy, social pr otection and inclusion) gradually moving 
towards EU standards in this field.  
Sustainable development  
(24) Promotion of sustainable development 
– Take first steps to implement the national long-term strategy on sustainable 
development. 
– Complete the establishment of administrati ve structures and procedures to ensure 
strategic planning of sustainable developm ent and co-ordination between relevant 
actors 
– Take steps to further improve integrati on of environmental considerations into 
other policy sectors,  particularly indust ry, energy, transport,  regional development 
and agriculture.  
 
 19    Longer term objective 
– Implement the national long-term strategy on sustainable development.  
2.4 Trade-related issues, ma rket and regulatory reform  
2.4.1 Movement of Goods  
Trade Relations  
– Full implementation of PCA commitments in  title III, and fulfilment of all 
obligations linked to WTO membership  
– Successful implementation of the WTO obligations (including the TRIPs 
agreement) and PCA obligations 
– Gradual removal of licensing  requirements which are not in conformity with 
Moldova’s WTO and PCA obligations a nd transparent management thereof 
– Efforts to increase transparency of  application of regulatory measures  
(25) Promote Moldova’s exports capacity and diversification of export products  
– Promotion of Sectoral groups of produ cers for joint action for promotion of 
Exports on foreign markets, as foreseen in MEPO’s programme 
– Ensure effective control of th e origin of goods in order to  be able to fully benefit 
from the Generalised System of Preferences 
– Improve institutional framework and procedures on control of origin by 
reinforcing customs and reviewing the di vision of responsibilities for the issuing 
and verification of both prefer ential and non-preferential cert ificates of origin with 
the Chamber of Commerce in order to build  a solid basis for possible Autonomous 
Trade Preferences.  
Customs  
(26) Implementation of customs legislation a ligned with international and EU standards 
– Implement provisions of the Customs C ode as well as provisions on customs 
control of precursors, counterfeit and pirated goods, dual us e goods, and cultural 
goods. 
– Moldova to adopt and keep up to date the HS in use, w ith a view to adopting the 
CN 
– Implement the principle of risk based customs control and set the necessary 
organisational framework  
 
 20    (27) Improve functioning of customs service; si mplify and modernise customs procedures 
at borders and inland 
– Strengthen the overall administrative capacity, in particular to ensure effective 
control of the origin  of goods and the correct impl ementation of customs valuation 
rules, and provide the custom s administration with suffici ent internal or external 
laboratory expertise as well as sufficien t operational capacity in the IT area 
– Develop a single window approach fo r all internationa l trade related 
documentation and control starting by in creased co-operation between customs 
services and other agencies  working at the border (e .g., State Border Guards, 
Police, and Veterinary Service).  
– Set up a mechanism to ensure regular consultation/ information of the trade 
community on import and export regulations and procedures. 
– Adopt and implement a Customs Ethi cs Policy based on internationally 
recognised standards (Arusha Declaration). 
– Develop EU-Moldova co-operation with rega rd to risk based customs control, 
including safety and security of goo ds imported, exported or in transit. 
Standards, technical regulations and co nformity assessment procedures (EU 
harmonised areas)  
(28) Move toward EU and international legisl ative and administrat ive practices for 
standards, technical regulations and conformity assessment  
– Jointly identify priority industrial sect ors for legislative approximation (with the 
possibility to be included in an Ag reement on Conformity Assessment and the 
Acceptance of Industrial Products, AC AA, provided that all the required 
conditions are accepted and fulfilled) including through consultations with producers and exporters. Continue the re vision of existing Moldovan standards, 
removing the mandatory elements and ha rmonising them with international and 
European standards.  
– Reinforce institutional capacity on standa rdisation, accreditation, conformity 
assessment, metrology and market surv eillance, integra ting the Moldovan 
institutions, to the extent possible, in  the European structures, namely the 
European Cooperation for Accreditation (EA), CEN, CENELEC and ETSI. Full 
membership of the International Sta ndards Organisations ISO, IEC and ITU.  
Revise the institutional arrangements in this area to avoid the concentration of functions within a single institution.  
– Approximate legislation on liability fo r defective products and general product 
safety. 
– Simplify procedures to avoi d compulsory certification of non-risk products and 
multiple testing of products.  
– Develop market surveillance capacities ba sed on best practice of EU Member 
States. 
 
 21    Elimination of restrictions and streamlined administration (EU non-harmonised areas) 
(29) Facilitate the movement of goods and improve admi nistrative co-operation. 
– Prevent discriminatory measures and ensure interested parties have the 
opportunity to identify problems a nd comment on draft legislation. 
– Ensure there is a contact point dealing with implementation of the movement of 
goods, which could also be used to impr ove information flows between the EU 
and Moldova and to exchange information with operators. 
– Analyse legislation and procedures to identify and progressively remove any 
discrimination against imported products . Analysis could initially focus on 
national measures covering the weight, composition, la belling, manufacture and 
description of products.  
Sanitary and phytosanitary issues  
(30) Increase food safety for Moldovan consume rs and facilitate trade through reforms and 
modernisation of the sanitary and phytosanitary sectors. 
– Fully implement the requirements of th e WTO Agreement on the Application of 
Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS) and the Agreement on Technical 
Barriers to Trade (TBT). 
– Accede to the European and Mediterran ean Plant Protection Organisation and 
increase its active participation in th e World Organisation for Animal Health 
(OIE), International Plant Protectio n Convention and Codex Alimentarius. 
– Assess the sanitary and phytosanitary contro l systems, in particular, at the state 
border, to compare with EU and international requirements. 
– On the basis of the reply by the Commi ssion on Trade in Animal Products, draw 
up a comprehensive list of measures for gradual convergence towards EU 
principles of hygiene in food processi ng, accompanied by timetables for the 
transposition of EU legisl ation and a financing plan. Start approximation to EU 
legislation on the hygiene in food processing. 
– Increase convergence of food law with EU  food safety principles (Regulation 
(EC) No 178/2002) and EU general foodstu ff labelling requirements (Directive 
2000/13/EC); and progressive abolition of pre-market approval systems for food 
products. 
– Prepare first steps for setting up of an an imal identification and traceability system 
(in particular for cattle) 
– Fulfilment of EU requirements on animal h ealth and for the processing of animal 
products (c.f.: “General Guidance for thir d country authorities on the procedures 
to be followed when importing live an imals and animal products into the 
European Union”, DG SANCO/FVO October 2003) 
 
 22    – Identify national reference laboratories in the sanitary and phytosanitary sectors, 
with a special attention gi ven to the necessary equipm ent and appropriate methods 
of analysis (residues of pesticides /contaminants) and their accreditation. 
2.4.2 Right of establishment and Company Law  
(31) Full implementation of PCA commitments in title IV, Chapter II (Conditions affecting 
establishment and operation of companies) 
– Complete screening to be made by Mol dova of national legislation so as to 
identify barriers to establishment with the aim of progressively abolishing them. 
– Abolish discriminatory measures affecting foreign investment  
– Ensure full application of the best e ndeavour standstill clause so that the 
conditions for establishment of companies are not more restrictive than when the 
PCA was concluded.  
– Ensure effective functioning of adequate administrative structures, inter alia, a 
central co-ordinating body facilitating establishment  
Company law: 
– Converge with and ensure effective imple mentation of key principles on company 
law, accounting and auditing in relevant in ternational and EU rules and standards. 
– Improve consistency and predictability  in the administrative and judicial 
authorities responsible for oversight of  company law and related investment 
conditions 
– Ensure effective functioning of the public  register of unde rtakings and the 
publication of certain information such  as the company’s organisation and 
financial details in the ‘national official gazette’. 
– Consolidate and ensure effective functioni ng of an administrative or judicial 
authority which ensures the control of the incorporation of a company or the 
legality of certain acts. 
– Adopt and ensure effective implementati on of a code on corporate governance 
(can be done by the private sector). 
Services  
(32) Gradual abolition of restrictions  to progressively allow the supply of services between 
the EU and Moldova in certain sectors, in line with WTO and PCA commitments in 
Title IV, Chapter III (Cross-border supply of services). 
– Complete a review of nationa l legislation by Moldova so as to identify barriers to 
the provision of serv ices with the aim of abolishing them. 
– Establish and ensure effective impleme ntation of appropriate administrative 
structures including a central co-ordina ting body with the aim of facilitating the 
supply of services. 
 
 23    – Consolidate and ensure effective implementation of adequate legislation setting 
out basic principles such as non-disc rimination and where necessary, introduce 
more detailed secondary legislation, or sector specific legislation.  
Financial services: 
– Ensure implementation of recommendations  of the IMF FSAP (Financial Sector 
Assessment Program).  
– Enhancement of a prudential regulatory  framework for financial markets and 
supervision equivalent to that existing in the EU. 
– Set up and train supervisory author ities in the financial sector. 
– Development of the insurance market. 
– Put into place and ensure effective im plementation of independent supervisory 
authorities in accordance with interna tionally recognised st andards (e.g. G10, 
IAIS, IOSCO, IASB).  
2.4.3 Movement of capital and current payments  
(33) Ensure full application of PCA commitmen ts under Title V (Current Payments and 
capital)  
– Ensure the free movement of capital re lating to direct investment made in 
companies and other investments made  in accordance with the provisions on 
Establishment (Chapter II of Title IV). 
– Ensure the protection of such foreign investments and the liquidation and 
repatriation of profits and capital. 
2.4.4 Movement of persons, including movement  of workers and co-ordination of social 
security  
(34) Full implementation of commitments under Article 23 of PCA (Labour conditions) 
– Ensure full application of the best  endeavour clause  by abolishing all 
discriminatory measures based on nationality which affect migrant workers, as 
regards working conditions, remuneration or dismissal. 
(35) Full implementation of commitments under Ar ticle 24 of PCA (Coordination of Social 
Security) 
– Continue process of concluding Agreements with Member States on the full 
application of provisions on c oordination of social security  as contained in Article 
24 of PCA  
 
 24    Other key areas  
Taxation 
(36) Development and implementation of a tax system and its institutions based on 
international and European standards. 
– Ensure that national tax legislation is fully compatible with WTO norms, 
including provisions for the determination of the place of supply of services in 
order to prevent double taxation, for fully  non-discriminatory VAT and excise 
taxes, and for refund of VAT to non-est ablished foreign ta xable persons.  
– Develop and begin implementing a comprehensive Strategy for the Tax 
Administration, with particul ar attention to strengthen ing the tax collection and 
control systems.  
– As Moldova comes closer to the internal  market, adoption of and compliance with 
the principles of the EU Code of Conduct for Business Taxation. 
– Complete, where appropriate, the network of bilateral agreements between 
Moldova and EU Member States  on avoidance of double taxation. 
Competition policy  
(37) Implement commitments on State aid under Ar ticle 48/2.2 of the Partnership and Co-
operation Agreement, by developing full tr ansparency in the field of state aid.  
– Establish a binding, uniform definition of St ate aid which is compatible with that 
of the EU (either by legislation or autonomous government act); 
– Establish full transparency as regards St ate aid granted in Mo ldova, in particular 
by (i) drawing up a complete list of ai d grantors, (ii) creating a national 
mechanism for centralising all information on state aid granted in Moldova, with a 
view to drawing up annual reports on the amounts, types and r ecipients of aid; 
(38) Implement, and build upon, commitments on anti-trust under Article 48.2.1. of the 
Partnership and Co-operation Agreement by  ensuring adequacy and compatibility 
with the EU of the dom estic anti-trust legislat ion and control regime. 
– Assess the effectiveness of the current legislative framework (competition law of 
2000), including respect of the principles  of non-discrimination, transparency and 
procedural fairness; 
– Ensure enforcement of the competition law, in particular by: 
– Establishing the National Agency for the Protection of Competition provided for 
in the law of 2000, as a politic ally independent institution, 
– Ensuring adequate legal powers for the competition agency, including decision-
making powers; the right of own initiative  investigations, enforcement orders and 
effective sanctions (e.g. fines) 
 
 25    – Ensuring adequate human and financial res ources, as well as training of staff in 
the competition administration.  
Intellectual and industr ial property rights  
(39) Ensure a level of protection similar to t hat in the EU, including effective means of 
enforcement, in line with provisions in Articles 49 & 50 of the PCA. 
– Apply international standards in this ar ea, including in pa rticular the TRIPS 
agreement. 
– Ensure proper functioning of the judicial system to guarantee access to justice for 
right-holders and availability and ef fective implementation of sanctions. 
– Consolidation of the re levant institutional structures, as well as of the offices for 
industrial rights, copyrights prot ection and collec tive societies.  Extend co-
operation with third country author ities and industry associations. 
– Increase resources dedicated to enfor cement, in particular for the customs 
authorities and the judicial system and increase seizures and actions against counterfeit/pirated goods in sp ecifically targ eted sectors 
– Improve enforcement of the relevant conventions provided for by PCA Article 
49(2) Conduct a study on piracy and counterfeiting in Moldova and ensure 
effective dialogue with rights holders.  
Public procurement 
(40) Develop conditions for open and competitive award of contracts between the parties, 
in particular through calls for tenders, in line with Article 54 of the PCA 
– Improve the functioning of the current system through increased transparency, 
information provision, training and the strictly limited use of exceptions. 
– Convergence with and effective implement ation of key principles in the EU 
legislation on public procurement (e .g. transparency, non-discrimination, 
competition and access to legal recourse). 
Statistics  
(41) Adoption of statistical methods  fully compatible with European standards in relevant 
statistical areas and advance the institution building of the Department for Statistics 
and Sociology of the Republic of Moldova (DSSMR) 
– Ensure that the forthcoming population censu s is carried out a ccording to schedule 
following recommendations of Eurostat/UN-ECE 2000 census;  
– Elaborate a short and medium term deve lopment strategy for harmonisation with 
European standards in the relevant stat istical areas, including foreign trade 
statistics and statistical classifications; 
– Ensure that legislation on official st atistics is based on the fundamental UN 
principles;  
 
 26    Financial Control and related matters 
(42) Sound management and control of public finances 
– Promote the development of appropriate ad ministrative capacity to prevent and 
fight effectively against fraud and othe r irregularities affecting national and 
international funds, including the establishment of well- functioning co-operation 
structures involving all re levant national entities; 
– Ensure effective cooperation with the re levant EU Institutions and bodies in the 
case of on-the-spot checks and inspections  related to the management and control 
of EU funds. 
– Improve public finance management a nd transparency, through upgrading of the 
existing Treasury Accounts Systems, a ppropriate audit of budget revenue and 
expenditures, in line with suggestions World Bank’s Public economic management review. Extension of the Tr easury system by including in the state 
budget the social insurance budget, compul sory medical insurance funds, special 
resources, extra-budgetary funds. Creation and implementation of an integrated 
informational system for public finance management.  
Public Internal Financial Control 
– Development of a strategy and policy pa per for the public internal financial 
control system (managerial accountability and internal audit). 
– Establish legislative framework for public internal financial control. 
– Gradual harmonization with the interna tionally agreed sta ndards (IFAC, IIA, 
INTOSAI) and methodologies, as well as with  EU best practices for the control 
and audit of public income, expe nditure, assets and liabilities. 
External Audit 
– Ensure the establishment and adequate functioning of an independent Supreme 
Audit Institution in line with the intern ationally accepted and EU best practice 
external audit standards (INTOSAI sta ndards – International Organisation of 
Supreme Audit Institutions). 
Enterprise policy  
(43) Develop a dialogue on enterprise policy aiming at the improvement of the 
administrative and regulatory en vironment for companies, at  promoting industrial co-
operation and tackling the impact of industrial restructuring, and develop the Moldovan legislative and admin istrative framework for SME promotion - in line with 
articles 52, 69 and 70 of the PCA 
– Develop a legislative framework and a ppropriate infrastructure for SMEs, as 
provided for in Article 70(2) of the PCA  
– Endorse and implement the European Charter for Small Enterprises and 
participate in the monitoring cycles fr om 2004 (includes participation in co-
ordination meetings, writi ng an annual national report and organising an annual 
 
 27    bilateral meeting with the European Co mmission and Moldovan enterprise policy 
stakeholders).  
– Preparation of companies for progressive ope ning of internal market elements to 
Moldovan participation, focusing on informa tion and training. The opening of one 
Euro-Info-Correspondence Centre (EICC) is envisaged. 
– In accordance with articles 52 and 69 of  the PCA, promote dialogue on industrial 
policy and associate Moldova to EU in itiatives to stimulate competitiveness, 
including in the tourism s ector (e.g. exchange of info rmation, participation in 
networks and studies, training).  
2.5 Cooperation in Justice and Home Affairs  
Migration issues (legal and illegal mi gration, readmission, visa, asylum)  
(44) Assess the scale of illegal migration to, via and from Moldova and monitor migratory 
movements. 
– Exchange information concerning, and assess the scale of, illegal migration in the 
EU and Moldova, including the establishm ent of an electronic database for the 
monitoring of migration flow s to, via and from Moldova;  
– Further alignment of domestic legislat ion with EU standards in order to 
criminalise illegal migration .  
(45) Supporting the efficient management of mi gration flows, also by rendering 
consultative, financia l and expert assistance to the government of Moldova and 
promotion of its activities, in particular to increase professional level of relevant staff through study of foreign exper ience and internship in re levant services of EU 
countries dealing with migration policy. 
– Adoption and implementation of Mol dova's National Action Programme on 
Migration and Asylum Issu es (migration issues). 
(46) Approximation of Moldovan legislat ion to the EU norms and standards, 
implementation of the 1951 UN Convention re lating to the status of refugees and the 
1967 Protocol relating to the status of refuge es, including the right  to seek asylum and 
respect for the principle of non-refoulement. Approximatio n of the system of state 
authorities responsible for implementation and  realisation of legislation on asylum 
and refugees to EU norms and standards.  
– Implementation of the obligations of the Geneva Convention and its Protocols, in 
particular through the developm ent of an asylum system.  
– Develop a system for electronic inform ation exchange between all relevant 
authorities (border guard, poli ce, Migration Department). 
– Advice on Eurodac Regulation and f unctioning of the Eurodac system. 
– Adoption and implementation of Mol dova's National Action Programme on 
Migration and Asylum Issues (asylum issues).  
 
 28    (47) Improve cooperation regarding the efficien t management of migration flows and on 
readmission of own nationals, persons wit hout nationality and third country nationals 
– Initiate a dialogue on readmission in the perspective of concluding a readmission 
agreement between Moldova and EU, taking into account the human dimension and the socio-economic aspects  
– Encourage Moldova to conclude readmissi on agreements with the main countries 
of origin and transit  
– Setting up, within the existing structures, a mixed expert group to discuss legal 
migration to the EU, current situations in  Member States, management structures 
for legal migration, including to explore ways to facilitate legalisation, legal 
migration of the labour force and social protection of migrant workers as well as 
programmes for voluntary re turn and re-integration .  
– Explore the possibility of inviting Moldova to partic ipate in or observe the 
activities organised in the framewor k of the EU programmes on migration 
(ARGO, AENEAS) 
(48) Pursue a dialogue concerning cooperation on visa policy 
– Exchange of views on Schengen proce dures and initiate  a dialogue on the 
possibilities of visa facilitati on in compliance with the acquis  
– Dialogue and exchange of views on visa co-operation (criteria and the procedure 
for the issue of visas)  
– Dialogue on document security  
Border management  
(49) Development of a system of efficient, comp rehensive state border management on all 
sectors of the Moldovan border, in cluding the Transniestrian sector  
– Implement the Concept on Border Control adopted on 4 December 2003, in 
particular the transformation of the Border Guards into a law enforcement agency, 
and make necessary amendments to national legislation.  
– Enhance inter-agency co-operation (among authorities involved in state border 
management) as well as co-operati on with neighbouring countries, including 
border demarcation and the conclusion of co-operation agreements.  
– Start developing a comprehensive educa tion and training stra tegy on state border 
management, including improved understand ing of Schengen rules and standards.  
– Enhance equipment and develop infras tructure for efficient state border 
management. 
(50) Intensify and facil itate cross-border cooperation be tween Moldova, the EU Member 
States and neighbouring countries. 
– Continuation of the “Söderköping process” 
 
 29    – Develop regional co-operation between rele vant law enforcement bodies (police, 
border guards, migration and asylum services, customs) 
Fight against organised crime (includi ng trafficking in human beings)  
(51) Ratification and full implementation of in ternational instruments which are of 
particular importance in combating organised crime  
– Ratify UN Convention against Trans-nationa l Organised Crime and its protocols 
on smuggling of migrants and trafficki ng in persons and adopt and implement 
national legislation (including hum an right aspects) accordingly  
– Sign and ratify protocol to the UN Convention (see above) on illicit 
manufacturing and trafficking of firearms.  
– Enhance the Moldovan law enforcement au thorities (police,  border guards, 
customs) through the provision of modern equipment, facilities and training in 
order to increase in partic ular the effectiveness of border crossing checkpoints; 
Prevent and fight sexual exploitation of  women, children and child pornography.  
(52) Reinforce the fight against trafficking in human beings , especially of women and 
children, and smuggling of illegal migrants, as well as activities to prevent trafficking 
in human beings and to reintegrate victims of  this traffic (see also above under Human 
rights). 
– Implement actions recommended at nati onal levels by OSCE action plan to 
combat trafficking in Human Beings (approved in Maastricht December 2003), Chapters III, IV and V and enhance co- operation in the framework of relevant 
international organi sations (OSCE, UN).  
– Implement provisions on the fight against trafficking in human  beings contained 
in the National Human Rights Action Pl an of the Republic of Moldova for 2004-
2008 (chapter 7b).  
– Promote regional co-operation between rele vant law enforcement bodies (police, 
border guards, customs and judiciary).  
– Develop legal and psychological support to  victims aiming at their reintegration 
Drugs  
(53) Further strengthen the fight against drug trafficking, including the trafficking of 
essential chemicals and precursors, and against drug abus e in particular through 
prevention and rehabilitation, in acco rdance with art.76 of the PCA 
– Continue to implement the 1988 UN Conven tion on Illicit Traffic of Narcotic and 
Psychotropic Substances. 
– Develop a national drug strategy. 
– Develop and implement prevention program mes and programmes for treatment of 
drug addicts.  
 
 30    Money laundering  financial and economic crime  
(54) Strengthen efforts and co-operation in the fight against money laundering, in 
accordance with art.66 of the PCA; convin cing progress in efforts to establish and 
implement a comprehensive anti money laundering regime.  
– Develop the necessary legislative fram ework, including concerning the scope and 
mandatory nature of reporti ng suspicious transactions.  
– Strengthen co-operation between the Cent ral Bank, financial in stitutions, other 
relevant entities, the FIU and law enforcement agencies (police, customs, prosecutors, judges) in order to make the financial institutions  and other relevant 
entities aware of the obligations and responsibilities arising from envisaged 
legislation.  
– Exchange information on the existing European system (Financial Intelligence 
Unit (FIU)) and the existing system in  Moldova as regards money laundering.  
– Enhancing the inter-institutional data-base on suspicious transactions. 
– Promote application of effective sanctions against money laundering. 
– Develop a training programme for the staff of the FIU, judges, prosecutors, and all 
other relevant personnel.  
– Intensify co-operation and promote exchange of information among law 
enforcement agencies and co-operati on between Moldova and international 
organisations, such as OE CD-FATF and Council of Eu rope, as well as with 
corresponding services of EU Member stat es and specialised bodies at European 
level.  
Police and judicial co-operation 
(55) Adoption and efficient implementation of legislation and measures for the development 
of arrangements under which judicial coope ration can be offered and obtained from 
other states. 
– Ratify relevant internationa l conventions on co-operation in criminal and civil law 
and, where already ratified, encour age and support their implementation.  
– Explore the possibilities for co-operation between Moldova agencies, Europol and 
Eurojust in accordance with the Europol  Convention and the relevant Council 
decisions.  
– Improve inter-agency co-operation and co -operation with other states in the 
framework of relevant international conventions.  
– Develop methods of risk analysis in Moldova comparable to those in the EU, to 
guide law enforcement and crime prevention actions.  
 
 31    (56) Further develop co-operation between Mol dova and EU Member State judicial and 
law enforcement authorities 
– Elaborate a manual on judi cial co-operation between EU Member States and 
Moldova and a statement of good practice in relation to such co-operation. 
– Establish a network of contact points w ith EU Member States law enforcement 
authorities to exchange information  
– Introduction of modern inve stigative techniques.  
– Develop anti-corruption measures within the law enforcement agencies (police, 
border police and judiciary), including the development of Code of Ethics for 
prosecutors and judges and implementati on of the Police Code of Ethics.  
2.6 Transport, energy, telecommunications, environment, and Research, development 
and innovation  
Transport  
(57) Elaborate and start implementing a national transport strategy, including transport 
infrastructure development 
– Start to develop a national sustainable trans port policy, with a focus, where 
appropriate on further appr oximation of legislative a nd regulatory frameworks 
with European and international standards, in particular for safety and security (all 
transport modes).  
– Develop an infrastructure policy (identifyi ng capacity constraints, lack of inter-
modal equipment and missing link infrastructu re) in order to identify the priority 
infrastructure projects in various sectors.  
– Creation of a long-term and transparent sy stem of road financing in order to 
ensure continued maintenance of the existent public road network. 
– Address issues of infrastructure financing (e.g. Public/Private Partnerships, tolls, 
shadow-tolling, user charges etc. ) Possibly, EIB mandate extension. 
– Continue active participation in the de velopment of the Pan-European Corridors 
and Areas as well as in the TRACEC A programme. Possibly, extension of EIB 
lending. 
(58) Implement selected measures and refo rms in the road transport sector 
– Adoption of transpar ent regulatory processes regard ing the award of licenses and 
introduction of mandatory driving times  and rest periods complying with 
international standards. 
– Develop a road safety action plan (i ncluding dangerous goods transport and 
roadworthiness) for improving road safety. 
 
 32    (59) Implement selected measures and reform s in the railway transport sector 
– Improve the average running time of freight  trains on selected corridors by an in-
depth corridor analysis, identifying bottlenecks and proposing solutions.  
– Improve safety, speed and efficiency (inter operability) of rail transport services.  
(60) Implement selected measures and reforms in the aviation sector 
– Pursuit of a national aviation policy for th e development of the sector (including a 
vision on the reform of the market structure). 
– Revision of bilateral service agreements with Member states  with a view to 
include Community standard clauses. 
– Solution of pending issues with Member States regarding the implementation of 
bilateral agreements.  
– Enhance administrative and technical capacity to become full JAA member. 
Explore possibilities to participate in EASA and for involvement in the Single 
European Sky. 
– Co-operate on aviation security matters (common rules to combat international 
terrorism). 
(61) Implement selected measures and reform s in the maritime and inland waterway 
sectors 
– Implement relevant international maritime conventions (including IMO).  
– Pursue effective enforcement in the area s of Port State Cont rol and Flag State 
Control implementation as well as resolutions of the IMO’s Maritime Environment Protection Co mmittee on Tanker Safety. 
– Pursuit of a national inland waterway transport policy fo r the development of the 
sector (including a vision on the upgrad ing of the national fleet) and the 
establishment of effectiv e administrative capacity. 
– Co-operate with the EU with a view to  aligning maritime safety policies based on 
measures agreed with the framework of the relevant International Organisations.  
Energy  
(62) Preparation of an updated energy poli cy converging towards EU energy policy 
objectives. 
– Prepare an updated energy policy documen t with an indication of financing 
sources and a timetable for implementation. 
– Strengthen capacities for monitoring and forecasting energy developments. 
 
 33    (63) Gradual convergence towards the principles of the EU internal electricity and gas 
markets. 
– Establish - on the basis of Moldova's expe rience in the Regional Energy Market in 
South East Europe initiative ("Athens Memorandum") - a list of measures for 
gradual convergence towards the principles of the EU internal electricity and gas markets, accompanied by time schedules an d a financing plan. Reciprocity issues 
to be addressed appropriately (mar ket opening, environmental norms).  
– Energy price developments and tariff reforms towards the elimination of 
distortions; improvement of bill collection rates. 
– Further develop the National Energy Regul atory Agency towards an independent 
body.  
– Further restructure the electricity, gas and heat sectors a nd address payment 
arrears. 
– Participation in EU related energy events.  
(64) Progress regarding energy networks. 
– Substantial reduction of network lo sses (electricity, heat notably).  
(65) Improve transparency, reliability and safety of the gas transit network. 
– Further rehabilitate and upgrade the network. 
– Identify and start to implement reform  options for the gas (transit) network. 
– Install additional gas metering devices on pipelines at border crossings points.  
(66) Progress on energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy sources. 
– Prepare an Action Plan for improving ener gy efficiency and enhancing the use of 
renewable energy sources, reinforcing th e relevant institutions, accompanied by a 
financing plan, quantitative target s and timetables for implementation. 
– Implement a set of low cost measures in this area.  
Information Society  
(67) Accelerate progress in electronic co mmunications policy and regulation 
– Adopt a national policy on the de velopment of the sector.  
– Adopt a comprehensive regulatory fram ework including licensing, access and 
interconnection, numbering, cost-orientati on of tariffs, Universal Service and 
users rights, privacy prot ection and data security. 
– Effective implementation of the market liberalisation launched on 1 January 2004 
including support of a fully competitive environment. 
 
 34    – Ensure the independence, increase the pow ers and improve the efficiency of the 
National Agency for Regulation in Teleco mmunications and Informatics (NARTI) 
by providing additional human and fina ncial resources and increasing the 
enforcement powers. 
– Reinforce the commercial capabilities of  MoldTelecom in the future competitive 
environment. 
(68) Accelerate progress in the development of Information Society services and in the 
integration of Moldova into the IST research programme. 
– Further implement the national policy a nd strategy for the Information Society 
and provide sufficient funds for its implementation. 
– Promote the widespread use of the new technologies by business and 
administration, in particular in the health ad the educat ion sectors (e-commerce, e-
government, e-health, e-learning), via the provision of advanced infrastructures, 
the development of content and th e introduction of pilot projects. 
– Improve the use of Internet and online serv ices by the citizens via public computer 
training programmes. 
– Adopt a specific plan to pr omote the participation of Mo ldova in the IST part of 
the 6th Framework Programme. 
Environment  
(69) Take steps to ensure that conditions fo r good environmental go vernance are set and 
start implementing them 
– Strengthen administrative stru ctures and procedures to ensure strategic planning 
of environmental issues, including financ ing strategies, and co-ordination between 
relevant actors  
– Establish procedures regarding access to  environmental information and public 
participation, including implementation of the Aarhus Convention, particularly by 
establishing structures and procedures for ensuring an acceptable level of service 
to those wishing to have access to information.  
– Prepare regular reports on th e state-of-the-environment  
– Strengthen structures and procedures nece ssary to carry out environmental impact 
assessments, including in relation to transboundary issues; complete relevant legislation.  
– Further improve communication strategies on the benefits of environmental policy 
and environmental education, support civ il society actors and local authorities  
 
 35    (70) Take active action for prevention of deterior ation of the environment, protection of 
human health, and achievement of rational use of natural resources, in line with the 
commitments of the Johannesburg Summit 
– Continue with the adoption of legislati on for key environmental sectors (water 
quality, waste management, air qualit y, industrial pollution), including the 
adoption of the legislation on wild  flora and ecological networks.   
– Enhance administrative capacities, including for the issuing of permits as well as 
for enforcement and inspection  
– Develop sector-specific pr ogrammes and plans (water, waste, air, industrial 
pollution), notably by completing the pl an on liquid waste and the plan on 
persistent organic pollutants.  
(71) Enhance co-operation on environmental issues 
– Implement provisions under the Kyot o Protocol and the UN Framework 
Convention on Climate Change  
– Participate actively in the Danube – Black  Sea Task Force to implement a trans-
boundary approach to water management; ensure active participation in the 
Eastern European, Caucasus  and Central Asia com ponent of the EU Water 
Initiative 
– Identify possibilities with neighbouri ng countries for enha nced regional co-
operation in particular as regards trans-boundary issues 
– Possible participation in selected Eu ropean Environment Agency activities 
– Strengthen administrative capacities for the implementation of regional and 
international agreements  
Research, development and innovation  
(72) Prepare Moldova’s integration into th e European Research Area and into the 
Community R&D Framework Programmes on the basis of scie ntific excellence 
– Implement appropriate information strategy to  facilitate adequate participation of 
Moldovan scientists in the Comm unity R&D Framework Programmes. 
– Undertake an assessment of the capacity of research structures in Moldova with a 
view to their integration in the European Research Area. 
(73) Develop Moldova’s capacity in technol ogical R&D to support the economy and 
society 
– Reinforce human, material and institutional resources in order to improve the 
capacities in technological R&D and innovation including through INTAS, 
EUREKA and COST actions.  
 
 36    (74) Support Moldova’s integration in high  level scientif ic exchanges. 
– Reinforce Moldavian participation in international Marie Curie fellowships 
including support of the appr opriate return mechanisms. 
– Promote participation of Moldavian scient ists in international debates and fora  
2.7 People-to-people contacts  
Education, training and youth  
(75) Bring education and training systems closer  to EU Member state standards and the 
Bologna process 
– Implement legislative reform and other measures that will prepare Moldova’s 
adherence to the Bologna process (promo te greater autonomy of Universities, 
modernise curricula, introducti on of a credit system).  
– Use participation in the programme Tem pus III to explore the possibility of 
fostering the development of hu man resources and human capital. 
– Involve civil society stakehol ders and social partners in  higher educ ation and VET 
reform. 
– Further implementation of a national pr ogramme to introduce IT in education. 
(76) Enhance co-operation in the field of education, training and youth 
– Support exchange and study opportunities fo r Moldovans, in particular through 
their participation in the Erasmus Mundus programme 
– Enhance Moldovan participation in  the Tempus III programme  
– Prepare for possible extension of the Tempus programme to the areas of 
vocational training as well as adult education 
– Enhance youth exchanges and cooperation in  the field of non-formal education for 
young people 
– Increase promotion of intercultural dial ogue, youth exchanges and co-operation in 
the field of non-formal educat ion through the YOUTH programme 
Culture and audio-visual issues  
(77) Enhance cultural co-operation 
– Intensify cultural exchanges giving pr iority to mobility of young Moldovans, 
particularly through the Youth programme. 
– Approximate relevant audiovi sual legislation in full compliance with European 
standards (with a view to a possible futu re participation in the Media programme 
if prerequisites are fulfilled.) 
 
 37    – Develop a dialogue on cultural diversity, incl uding in the contex t of the relevant 
negotiations in UNESCO 
Civil society co-operation  
(78) Promote civil society co-operation 
– Further develop and build on experience of existing Institution Building 
Partnership Programs (IBPP)  
– Encourage the empowerment of consumers and the protection of their legitimate 
economic interests  
Cross-border and regional level co-operation  
(79) Enhance contacts and capacity for cooperation  at the cross-border and regional level 
by taking up the opportuniti es and challenges arising from EU enlargement.  
– Encourage local and regional own-initiati ve approach to establish and develop 
cross-border co-operation. 
– Implement activities based on local and re gional priorities, developed in co-
operation with the areas concerned 
– Pay special attention to and support the development and implementation of the 
new Neighbourhood Programmes through the active involvement of the local and regional levels. 
– Provide support to development of human resources and other capacities in local 
and regional authorities to ensure effi cient implementation of cross-border co-
operation actions. 
Public health  
(80) Increase the level of health security and epidemiological safety  in Moldova in line 
with EU legislation and in cooperation and w ith the support of the WHO. Relate the 
information system of Moldov a to the health indicators pr ocess underway in the EU.  
Health information and knowledge:
 
– Organise collection of info rmation on health indicators 
Communicable Disease Surveill ance and Health Security:  
– Exchange information and technical expertise in order to facilitate participation in 
EU Network for the Prevention and Control of Communicable Diseases  
– Participation in dedicated su rveillance networks, in part icular those collecting data 
and information on HIV/AIDS, sexually tr ansmitted infections, and hepatitis C 
and B. 
– Reform of health system:  
 
 38    – Improve the primary health care system and the prevention of diseases, such as 
the HIV/AIDS epidemic, notably in rura l and deprived communities and within 
vulnerable groups 
– Modernisation of emergency services 
– Health services autonomy, es pecially for hospitals  
– Monitoring of the mandatory health insurance implementation Improve the 
training standards in general practice for health professionals with graduate and 
undergraduate education 
3. Monitoring  
The Action Plan will be submitted for formal  adoption to the Co- operation Council between 
the EU and Moldova. The Action Plan will guide the work between the EU and Moldova. Should the need arise, on the EU side, for specific measures necessitating legally binding 
decisions, the Commission will recommend to the Council the adopti on of the necessary 
negotiating directives.  
The joint bodies established under the Partnership and Co-operation Agreement will advance 
and monitor the implementation of the Acti on Plan. The structures under the relevant 
agreements, where appropriate, should be reviewe d, to ensure that all priorities under the ENP 
are duly reflected.  
The Commission will produce repo rts on the Action Plan’s implementation at regular 
intervals. It will invite Moldova to provide  information for these reports. The Commission 
will also work closely with other organisatio ns such as the Council of Europe, the OSCE, 
relevant UN bodies, and International Financial Institutions.  
A first review of the implementation of the Ac tion Plan will be undertaken within two years 
of its adoption. 
The Action Plan can be regularly amended and/ or updated to reflect progress in addressing 
the priorities. 
 
 39    Glossaire  
CEN European Committee for Standardization 
CENELEC European Committee for El ectrotechnical Standardisation 
EASA European Aviation Safety Agency EGPRSP Economic Growth and Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper ETSI European Telecommunications Standards Institute FATF Financial Action Plan Task Force for Money Laundering FIU Financial Intelligence Unit IAIS International Associatio n of Insurance Supervisors 
IASB International Accounting Standards Board IEC International Electrotechnical Commission IFAC: International Fede ration of Accountants 
IIA: Institute of Internal Audit ILO: International Labour Organisation IMO International Maritime Organisation INTOSAI: International Organisation  of Supreme Audit Institutions 
IOSCO: International Organisati on of Securities Commissions 
ISO International Organisation for Standardisation IST Information Society Technologies ITU International Telecommunication Union JAA Joint Aviation Authorities MEPO Moldovan Export Promotion Organisation MTFF: Medium Term Fiscal Framework TAIEX: Technical Assistance Information Exchange TRACECA: Transport Corridor Europe Caucasus Asia 
TRIPS: WTO Agreement on Intellectual Property 
WMD: Weapons of Mass Destruction