Proposal for a Council Decision on the position to be adopted by the European Communities and their Member States within the Cooperation Council established by the Partnership 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 adoption of a Recommendation on the implementation of the EU-Moldova Action Plan
Date: 2004-12-09
Institutions: European Commission
Subjects: EU relations, Moldova, action programme, aid policy, common foreign and security policy, cooperation policy, economic integration

COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES 

Brussels, 9.12.2004 
COM(2004) 787 final 

Proposal for a 

COUNCIL DECISION 

on the position to be adopted by the European Communities and their Member States  
within the Cooperation Council established by the Partnership 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 adoption of a Recommendation on the implementation of the EU-Moldova 
Action Plan 

EN 

   EN 

 
 
 
  
EXPLANATORY MEMORANDUM 

The 2002 Copenhagen European Council, closing accession negotiations with ten new States, 
recognised that enlargement presented an important 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  Europe  and  to  promote  stability  and  prosperity 
within and beyond the new borders of the Union. 

The  Commission  Communication  “Wider  Europe  -  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 contribution, where appropriate, of 
the High Representative, to present proposals for Action Plans for all countries concerned as 
appropriate, commencing with Ukraine, Moldova, and Southern Mediterranean partners with 
Association Agreements. 

On  14  June  2004,  the  Council  welcomed  the  Commission  Communication  “European 
Neighbourhood  Policy  –  Strategy  Paper”2.  The  Council  also  welcomed  the  Commission 
proposal  to  pursue  the  European  Neighbourhood  Policy  (ENP)  through  Action  Plans  to  be 
agreed  jointly  with  the  neighbouring  countries  concerned  and  invited  the  Commission  to 
propose such Action Plans. Action Plans should have a minimum duration of three years and 
be subject to renewal by mutual consent. They should be based on common 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  clearly  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  the  Presidency  and  the  High  Representative  on 
issues related to political cooperation and the CFSP, has held exploratory talks with Moldova 
which have resulted in agreement on a draft Action Plan. It covers a timeframe of three years. 
Its  implementation  will  help  fulfil  the  provisions  in  the  Partnership  and  Cooperation 
Agreement and will contribute to an increasingly close relationship with Moldova, involving a 
significant  degree  of  economic  integration  and  a  deepening  of  political  co-operation. 
Implementation of the Action Plan will significantly 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 and political co-operation, carrying to a further 
stage  the  commitments  and  objectives  contained  in  the  Partnership  and  Cooperation 
Agreement. 

In accordance with the Council Conclusions of 14 June 2004, stipulating 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 Communities 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 
2 

COM(2003)104 
COM(2004)373 

2 

 
 
  
 
                                                 
The Commission therefore requests the Council to adopt the attached proposal for a Council 
Decision. 

3 

 
 
  
 
Proposal for a 

COUNCIL DECISION 

on the position to be adopted by the European Communities and their Member States  
within the Cooperation Council established by the Partnership 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 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  Council  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) 

(2) 

The  Partnership  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, was signed on 28 November 1994 and entered into force 
on 1 July 1998; 

The  Parties  intend  to  agree  on  an  EU-Moldova  Action  Plan,  which  will  support  the 
implementation of the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement through the elaboration 
and agreement of concrete steps towards attainment of its objectives. 

HAS DECIDED AS FOLLOWS: 

Sole Article 

The position to be adopted by the European Communities and their Member States within the 
Cooperation Council established by the Partnership 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 draft Recommendation of the Cooperation Council 
annexed to this Decision. 

3 

OJ C , , p. 

4 

 
 
  
 
                                                 
Done at Brussels,  

For the Council 
The President 

5 

 
 
  
 
 
 
 
ANNEX  

draft 

RECOMMENDATION 

on the implementation of the EU-Moldova Action Plan  

The EU/Moldova Cooperation Council, 

Having  regard  to  the  Partnership  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, and in particular Article 82 thereof, 

Whereas: 

(1) 

(2) 

(3) 

(4) 

(5) 

Article  82  of  the  Partnership  and  Cooperation  Agreement  gives  the  Cooperation 
Council the power to make appropriate recommendations, for the purposes of attaining 
the objectives of the Agreement.  

In terms of Article 99 of the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, the Parties shall 
take  any  general  or  specific  measures  required  to  fulfil  their  obligations  under  the 
Agreement and shall see to it that the objectives set out in the Agreement are attained. 

 The Parties to the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement have agreed on the text of 
the EU-Moldova Action Plan. 

The EU-Moldova Action Plan will support the implementation of the Partnership and 
Cooperation Agreement through the elaboration and agreement between the Parties of 
concrete steps which will provide practical guidance for such implementation. 

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  significant  measure  of  economic  integration  and  a 
deepening  of  political  cooperation,  in  accordance  with  the  overall  objectives  of  the 
Partnership and Cooperation Agreement. 

HAS ADOPTED THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATION: 

Sole Article 

The Cooperation Council recommends that the Parties implement the EU-Moldova Action 
Plan in annex, insofar as such implementation is directed towards attainment of the objectives 
of the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement.  

6 

 
 
  
 
 
Done at [...] 

For the Cooperation Council 

The President 

7 

 
 
  
 
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  terms,  further  reinforcing  the  political  and 
economic interdependence between the EU and Moldova. Enlargement offers the opportunity 
for  the  EU  and  Moldova  to  develop  an  increasingly  close  relationship,  going  beyond  co-
operation,  to  involve  a  significant  measure  of  economic  integration  and  a  deepening  of 
political co-operation. The European Union and Moldova are determined to make use of this 
occasion  to  enhance  their  relations  and  to  promote  stability,  security  and  well-being.  The 
approach is founded on partnership, joint ownership and differentiation. 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  effective  implementation  of  political,  economic  and 
institutional reforms.  

Moldova is invited to enter into intensified political, security, economic and cultural relations 
with  the  EU,  enhanced  cross  border  co-operation  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 will depend on the degree of Moldova’s commitment 
to common values as well as its capacity to implement jointly agreed priorities. The pace of 
progress  of  the  relationship  will  acknowledge  fully  Moldova’s  efforts  and  concrete 
achievements in meeting those commitments. 

This  Action  Plan  is  a  first  step  in  this  process.  The  EU  Moldova  Action  Plan  is  a  political 
document laying out the strategic 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 into 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  regulations  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 social cohesion, to reduce poverty and to protect 
the environment, thereby contributing to the long-term objective of sustainable development. 

Moldova and the EU will cooperate closely in implementing this Action Plan.  

The  European  Union  acknowledges  Moldova’s  European  aspirations  and  Moldova’s 
“Concept for the Integration of the republic of Moldova into the EU”. For the near future the 
PCA remains a valid basis for EU-Moldovan cooperation.  

8 

 
 
  
 
 
 
New partnership perspectives  

The European Neighbourhood Policy opens new partnership perspectives:  

•  The  perspective  of  moving  beyond  cooperation  to  a  significant  degree  of  integration, 
including through a stake in the EU’s Internal Market, and the possibility for Moldova to 
participate progressively in key aspects 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 the EU’s disposal, and in close 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 trade barriers which will stimulate investment 
and growth; 

•  Increased  financial  support:  EU  financial  assistance  for  Moldova  will  be  available  to 
support  the  actions  identified  in  the  present  document.  The  Commission  is  furthermore 
proposing  a  new  European  Neighbourhood  and  Partnership  Instrument  (ENPI)  for  this 
purpose,  also  covering  the  very  important  aspects  of  cross-border  and  trans-national 
cooperation between Moldova and the (future) Member States.  

•  Possibilities  of  gradual  opening  of  or  reinforced  participation  in  certain  Community 
programmes, promoting cultural, educational, environmental, technical and scientific links; 

•  Support including technical assistance and twinning to meet EU norms and standards, and 
targeted  advice  and  support  for  legislative  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 views on possibilities of visa facilitation in compliance with the 
acquis; 

•  Opening as soon as possible a Commission Delegation in Moldova. 

In light of the fulfilment of the objectives of this Action Plan and of the overall evolution of 
EU  –  Moldova  relations,  consideration  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.  The  advisability  of  any  new  contractual  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 Agreement. Among these priorities, all of which are important, 
particular attention should be given to:  

9 

 
 
  
 
•  sustained efforts towards a viable solution to the Transnistria conflict; 

•  further strengthening the stability and effectiveness of institutions guaranteeing democracy 
and the rule of law; ensuring the democratic conduct of parliamentary 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 administrative and judicial capacity; 

•  resuming  cooperation  with  IFIs;  implementing  actions  aimed  at  poverty  reduction,  to 

strengthen private sector led growth and for fiscal sustainability; 

•  improving the investment climate through appropriate structural reforms aimed at ensuring 
non-discriminatory,  transparent  and  predictable  business  conditions  and  by  the  fight 
against corruption; 

•  progress  towards  a  system  of  efficient,  comprehensive  state  border  management  on  all 

sectors of the Moldovan border including 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 crime, including trafficking in human beings; 

•  ensuring  the  efficient  management  of  migratory  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  bodies  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, including 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  settlement  of  the  Transnistria  issue,  ensure 
constitutional  and  legislative reform in line with European standards, continuing 
to draw on the expert cooperation and advice of the 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 

10 

 
 
  
 
democratic  conduct  of  Parliamentary  Elections  in  2005  in  accordance  with 
European  standards  and  addressing  remaining  shortcomings  as  identified  by  the 
OSCE / ODIHR recommendations; 

–  Continue administrative reform and strengthening of local self government in line 
with  European  standards,  notably  those  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 
to  match 
responsibilities).Strengthen  law  enforcement  by  increasing  the  efficiency  of 
judiciary  and  the  law  protection  bodies,  respect  the  relevant  judgments  of  the 
Constitutional Court. 

competence 

attribution 

(resources 

budgetary 

of 

(2) 

Review existing legislation, so as to ensure the independence and impartiality of the 
judiciary,  including  the  impartiality  and  effectiveness  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  legislation  on  the  public  prosecution  in  line 

with European standards; 

–  Improve  training,  in  particular  on  Human  Rights  issues  and  on  judicial  co-
operation, of judges, prosecutors and officials in the judiciary, Ministry of Justice 
administration, police and prisons  

–  Develop  alternative  means  of  dispute  settlement,  including  mediation  and 

arbitration 

(3) 

Ensure the effectiveness of the fight against corruption.  

–  Ensure progress in implementing the recommendations of the Council of Europe 

Group of States against Corruption (GRECO). 

–  Complete the adoption of the necessary measures identified in the Stability Pact 
Anti-corruption Initiative self evaluation and peer review report by the Republic 
of Moldova of April 2002. 

–  Continue collaboration with International Organisations and Civil Society on the 

issue. 

–  Implementation of National Strategy on prevention and combating corruption.  

11 

 
 
  
 
Human rights and fundamental freedoms 

(4) 

Ensure  respect  of  human  rights  and  fundamental  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  revisions,  strengthening  of  institutional 
framework and raising of human rights awareness). 

–  Ensure  adherence  to  and  effective  implementation  of  core  UN  Conventions  and 

related optional protocols.4  

–  Ensure effective protection of rights of persons belonging to national minorities; 

–  Appropriate response to conclusions and recommendations of relevant Council of 
Europe  structures  and  experts  on  state  of  compliance  by  Moldova  with  the 
Framework Convention for the protection of national minorities; Put in place and 
implement  legislation  on  anti-discrimination  and  legislation  guaranteeing  the 
rights of minorities, in line with European standards; 

–  Amend  the  law  on  religious  denominations  to  bring  it  in  line  with  the 
requirements  of  the  European  Convention  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; Guarantee 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 trafficking in human beings, and for addressing the problems faced 
by victims of trafficking  

–  Revision  of  anti-trafficking  law,  including  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 organised crime (“Palermo convention”) and 
its  Protocol  to  prevent,  suppress  and  punish  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 ratification of: CRC-OP-AC, CRC-OP-SC. 

12 

 
 
  
 
                                                 
(6) 

Eradication of ill-treatment and torture 

–  Address  effectively 

issue  of  reported 

law 
enforcement  officials,  in  particular  in  pre-trial  detention,  including  through 
adoption of relevant legal basis and provision of training. Implementation of the 
recommendations  of  the  Council  of  Europe’s  Committee  for  the  prevention  of 
torture; 

ill-treatment  of  detainees  by 

–  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 protecting the rights of the child by ensuring the 
implementation  of  the  Declaration  and  Plan  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  equality  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  the  authorities  and  media  institutions  in 
line  with  Council  of  Europe  recommendations;  State  financial  assistance  for 
media to abide by strict and objective criteria 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 standards and on the basis 
of the recommendations of the Council of Europe.  

(10)  Ensure  respect  for  the  freedom  of  association  and  foster  the  development  of  civil 

society 

–  Amend law on assemblies to bring it in line with the requirements of the European 

Convention on Human Rights; 

–  Effective dialogue between the different political 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  civil  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. 

13 

 
 
  
 
(12)  Ensure international Justice through the International Criminal Court 

–  Ratify the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court and make provisions 
for  the  necessary  constitutional  amendments  foreseen  thereto  in  the  new  draft 
constitution  that  is  being  elaborated  by  the  Joint  Constitutional  Commission. 
Ensure its unhindered implementation.  

Co-operation on foreign and security policy, conflict prevention and crisis management  

(13) 

Strengthen political dialogue and co-operation on foreign and security policy issues 

–  Continue  and  develop  political  dialogue  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  multilateral  institutions  and  conventions  more 
effective,  so  as  to  reinforce  global  governance,  strengthen  coordination  in 
combating security threats and address 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 align 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  implementation  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 
law 
enforcement agencies of the EU Member States and Moldova;  

judicial  bodies  and 

–  Implement  the  standards  laid  down  in  the  FATF’s  recommendations  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, including with a view to the situation in Transnistria; 

–  Cooperate  on  non-proliferation  of  weapons  of  mass  destruction,  including  on 
aspects  related  to  accession  to  and  implementation  of  relevant  international 
instruments  and  export  control  regimes,  in  the  light  of  the  EU  WMD  Strategy 
adopted by the European Council in December 2003 and the GAERC conclusions 
of  17  November  2003;  Establish  an  effective  system  of  national  export  control 
controlling  export  and  transit  of  WMD  related  goods,  including  WMD  end  use 
control on dual use technologies; 

14 

 
 
  
 
–  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  under  activities  of  the  Stability  Pact  (SP) 
for  South-East  Europe,  complementary  to  the  implementation  of  the  present  EU  – 
Moldova ENP Action Plan  

–  Further  draw  on  the  exchange  of  experience  with  other  South  Eastern  European 

countries through Moldova’s participation 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 Moldova of regional projects within the 
SP,  paying  particular  attention  to  the  implementation  of  the  bilateral  Free  Trade 
Agreements signed by Moldova with SP beneficiaries countries; 

–  EU  support  for  the  participation  of  Moldova  to  the  South-East  European  Co-

operation Process. 

2.2 Co-operation for the settlement of the Transnistria conflict 

(16) 

Sustained  efforts  towards  a  settlement  of  the  Transnistria  conflict,  respecting  the 
sovereignty  and  territorial  integrity  of  the  Republic  of  Moldova  within  its 
internationally recognised borders, and guaranteeing 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 process aimed at reaching a settlement of 
the Transnistria conflict;  

–  Effective co-operation between the EU and 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 post-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  the  EU  and  Moldova  on  the  Transnistria 

conflict. 

–  Significant  further  progress  with  Ukraine  on  pending  border  questions  along the 
cooperation  with  Ukrainian 
strengthen 
Transnistrian  border 
administration  including  effective  exchange  of  information  about  flow  of  goods 
and  people  across  the  common  border.  Active  engagement  in  the  trilateral  talks 

section; 

15 

 
 
  
 
Moldova - Ukraine - European Commission concerning measures to ensure proper 
management  and  control  of  Moldova's  entire  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),  identifying  short  term  and  long  term 
priorities,  endorsed  by  international  donors  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  child  poverty  and  to  increase 

primary school enrolment.  

–  Implement  relevant  conditionalities  on  Poverty  Alleviation  and  on  Social  safety 

net agreed within the framework of the EU Food Security Programme. 

–  Develop  community  based  child  protection  measures  in  particular  in  the 

countryside in collaboration 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  secondary  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 sustainable over the medium term.  

–  As  a  vital  step  toward  sustained  economic  growth,  enhance  macroeconomic 
stability through a sound monetary policy aimed, 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 concessional external assistance, including by the 
EU. 

–  Achieve a long-term solution to the external debt problem through a combination 
of  a  rigorous  and  credible  fiscal  policy  and  debt  rescheduling/restructuring  in 
agreement with creditors. 

16 

 
 
  
 
–  Adopt  a  comprehensive  MTFF,  covering  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  financial  assistance. 
The  MTFF  will  be  based  on  sound  macro-economic  projections,  and  will  be 
consistent  with  the  EGPRSP  and  the  programmes  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 expenditure effectiveness, transparency and 
accountability  in  consultation  with  IFIs/EU  experts.  In  particular,  enhance  the 
incidence on poverty of social spending. Take steps to improve revenue collection 
and broaden the tax base, particularly by gradually eliminating tax exemptions.  

–  Establishment of procedures for the detection, treatment and follow-up of cases of 
(suspected) fraud and other irregularities affecting national 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  framework  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 identified 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  priority,  and  (2)  definition  of  responsible 
bodies with realistic dead-lines for implementation 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 improved 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; 
and 
administrative  obligations,  limit  to  essentials  licensing  and  issuing  of  permits 
necessary to conduct economic activity) 

simplification  of 

implementation; 

reporting 

schemes 

–  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 (predictability) of business. 
Develop  dialogue  with  investors  and  entrepreneurs  on  how  to  improve  business 
climate. 

17 

 
 
  
 
–  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 interface between Public and Private sector in line with 

WB recommendation  

–  Accelerate  and  increase  transparency  of  privatisation  programme,  covering  in 

particular large scale privatisation 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  rural  development,  taking  as  a  basis  the 
approach envisaged in the EG-PRSP and using an integrated approach that builds 
on results of donors’ past activity in the country, as well as on EU best practice.  

–  Develop  plan  and  undertake  specific  actions  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  practices  in  the  area  of 
employment and social policy  

–  Engage in a dialogue on employment and social policy with a view to develop an 
analysis and assessment of the situation and to identify key challenges and policy 
responses  (social  and  civil  dialogue,  health  and  safety  at  work,  gender  equality, 
labour law, employment policy, social protection 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 administrative structures and procedures to ensure 
strategic planning of sustainable development and co-ordination between relevant 
actors 

–  Take  steps  to  further  improve  integration  of  environmental  considerations  into 
other policy sectors, particularly industry, energy, transport, regional development 
and agriculture.  

18 

 
 
  
 
Longer term objective 

–  Implement the national long-term strategy on sustainable development. 

2.4 Trade-related issues, market 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 and 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  producers  for  joint  action  for  promotion  of 

Exports on foreign markets, as foreseen in MEPO’s programme 

–  Ensure effective control of the 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 division of responsibilities for the issuing 
and verification of both preferential and non-preferential certificates 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 aligned with international and EU standards 

–  Implement  provisions  of  the  Customs  Code  as  well  as  provisions  on  customs 
control of precursors, counterfeit and pirated goods, dual use goods, and cultural 
goods. 

–  Moldova to adopt and keep up to date the HS in use, with a view to adopting the 

CN 

–  Implement  the  principle  of  risk  based  customs  control  and  set  the  necessary 

organisational framework 

19 

 
 
  
 
(27) 

Improve  functioning  of  customs  service;  simplify  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 implementation of customs valuation 
rules, and provide the customs administration with sufficient internal or external 
laboratory expertise as well as sufficient operational capacity in the IT area 

–  Develop  a  single  window  approach  for  all 

trade  related 
documentation  and  control  starting  by  increased  co-operation  between  customs 
services  and  other  agencies  working  at  the  border  (e.g.,  State  Border  Guards, 
Police, and Veterinary Service).  

international 

–  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  Ethics  Policy  based  on  internationally 

recognised standards (Arusha Declaration). 

–  Develop  EU-Moldova  co-operation  with  regard  to  risk  based  customs  control, 

including safety and security of goods imported, exported or in transit. 

Standards, 
harmonised areas) 

technical  regulations  and  conformity  assessment  procedures 

(EU 

(28)  Move  toward  EU  and  international  legislative  and  administrative  practices  for 

standards, technical regulations and conformity assessment  

–  Jointly  identify  priority  industrial  sectors  for  legislative  approximation  (with  the 
possibility  to  be  included  in  an  Agreement  on  Conformity  Assessment  and  the 
Acceptance  of  Industrial  Products,  ACAA,  provided  that  all  the  required 
conditions  are  accepted  and  fulfilled)  including  through  consultations  with 
producers  and  exporters.  Continue  the  revision  of  existing  Moldovan  standards, 
removing  the  mandatory  elements  and  harmonising  them  with  international  and 
European standards.  

–  Reinforce  institutional  capacity  on  standardisation,  accreditation,  conformity 
assessment,  metrology  and  market  surveillance,  integrating  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  Standards  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  for  defective  products  and  general  product 

safety. 

–  Simplify  procedures  to  avoid  compulsory  certification  of  non-risk  products  and 

multiple testing of products.  

–  Develop  market  surveillance  capacities  based  on  best  practice  of  EU  Member 

States. 

20 

 
 
  
 
Elimination of restrictions and streamlined administration (EU non-harmonised areas) 

(29)  Facilitate the movement of goods and improve administrative co-operation. 

–  Prevent  discriminatory  measures  and  ensure 

interested  parties  have 

the 

opportunity to identify problems and comment on draft legislation. 

–  Ensure there is a contact point dealing with implementation of the movement of 
goods,  which  could  also  be  used  to  improve  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,  labelling,  manufacture  and 
description of products.  

Sanitary and phytosanitary issues 

(30) 

Increase food safety for Moldovan consumers and facilitate trade through reforms and 
modernisation of the sanitary and phytosanitary sectors. 

–  Fully implement the requirements of the 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  Mediterranean  Plant  Protection  Organisation  and 
increase  its  active  participation  in  the  World  Organisation  for  Animal  Health 
(OIE), International Plant Protection Convention and Codex Alimentarius. 

–  Assess  the  sanitary  and  phytosanitary  control  systems,  in  particular,  at  the  state 

border, to compare with EU and international requirements. 

–  On the basis of the reply by the Commission on Trade in Animal Products, draw 
up  a  comprehensive  list  of  measures  for  gradual  convergence  towards  EU 
principles  of  hygiene  in  food  processing,  accompanied  by  timetables  for  the 
transposition  of  EU  legislation  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  foodstuff  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 animal identification and traceability system 

(in particular for cattle) 

–  Fulfilment of EU requirements on animal health and for the processing of animal 
products (c.f.: “General Guidance for third country authorities on the procedures 
to  be  followed  when  importing  live  animals  and  animal  products  into  the 
European Union”, DG SANCO/FVO October 2003) 

21 

 
 
  
 
–  Identify  national  reference  laboratories  in the  sanitary  and  phytosanitary  sectors, 
with a special attention given to the necessary equipment 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  Moldova  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  endeavour  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 implementation of key principles on company 
law, accounting and auditing in relevant international 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  undertakings  and  the 
publication  of  certain  information  such  as  the  company’s  organisation  and 
financial details in the ‘national official gazette’. 

–  Consolidate  and  ensure  effective  functioning  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  implementation  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 national legislation by Moldova so as to identify barriers to 

the provision of services with the aim of abolishing them. 

–  Establish  and  ensure  effective  implementation  of  appropriate  administrative 
structures  including  a  central  co-ordinating  body  with  the  aim  of  facilitating  the 
supply of services. 

22 

 
 
  
 
–  Consolidate  and  ensure  effective  implementation  of  adequate  legislation  setting 
out  basic  principles  such  as  non-discrimination  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 authorities in the financial sector. 

–  Development of the insurance market. 

–  Put  into  place  and  ensure  effective  implementation  of  independent  supervisory 
authorities  in  accordance  with  internationally  recognised  standards  (e.g.  G10, 
IAIS, IOSCO, IASB).  

2.4.3 Movement of capital and current payments 

(33)  Ensure  full  application  of  PCA  commitments  under  Title  V  (Current  Payments  and 

capital)  

–  Ensure  the  free  movement  of  capital  relating  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 Article 24 of PCA (Coordination of Social 

Security) 

–  Continue  process  of  concluding  Agreements  with  Member  States  on  the  full 
application of provisions on coordination of social security as contained in Article 
24 of PCA 

23 

 
 
  
 
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-established foreign taxable persons.  

–  Develop  and  begin  implementing  a  comprehensive  Strategy  for  the  Tax 
Administration,  with  particular  attention  to  strengthening  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 Article 48/2.2 of the Partnership and Co-
operation Agreement, by developing full transparency in the field of state aid.  

–  Establish a binding, uniform definition of State aid which is compatible with that 

of the EU (either by legislation or autonomous government act); 

–  Establish full transparency as regards State aid granted in Moldova, in particular 
by  (i)  drawing  up  a  complete  list  of  aid  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 recipients 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 domestic anti-trust legislation 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 politically 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) 

24 

 
 
  
 
–  Ensuring  adequate  human  and  financial  resources,  as  well  as  training  of  staff  in 

the competition administration. 

Intellectual and industrial property rights 

(39)  Ensure  a  level  of  protection  similar  to  that  in  the  EU,  including  effective  means  of 

enforcement, in line with provisions in Articles 49 & 50 of the PCA. 

–  Apply  international  standards  in  this  area,  including  in  particular  the  TRIPS 

agreement. 

–  Ensure proper functioning of the judicial system to guarantee access to justice for 

right-holders and availability and effective implementation of sanctions. 

–  Consolidation of the relevant institutional structures, as well as of the offices for 
industrial  rights,  copyrights  protection  and  collective  societies.  Extend  co-
operation with third country authorities and industry associations. 

–  Increase  resources  dedicated  to  enforcement,  in  particular  for  the  customs 
authorities  and  the  judicial  system  and  increase  seizures  and  actions  against 
counterfeit/pirated goods in specifically targeted 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  implementation  of  key  principles  in  the  EU 
transparency,  non-discrimination, 

legislation  on  public  procurement  (e.g. 
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 census is carried out according to schedule 

following recommendations of Eurostat/UN-ECE 2000 census;  

–  Elaborate a short and medium term development strategy for harmonisation with 
European  standards  in  the  relevant  statistical  areas,  including  foreign  trade 
statistics and statistical classifications; 

–  Ensure  that  legislation  on  official  statistics  is  based  on  the  fundamental  UN 

principles; 

25 

 
 
  
 
Financial Control and related matters 

(42) 

Sound management and control of public finances 

–  Promote  the  development  of  appropriate  administrative  capacity  to  prevent  and 
fight  effectively  against  fraud  and  other  irregularities  affecting  national  and 
international  funds,  including  the  establishment  of  well-functioning  co-operation 
structures involving all relevant national entities; 

–  Ensure  effective  cooperation  with  the  relevant  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 and transparency, through upgrading of the 
existing  Treasury  Accounts  Systems,  appropriate  audit  of  budget  revenue  and 
expenditures, 
line  with  suggestions  World  Bank’s  Public  economic 
management  review.  Extension  of  the  Treasury  system  by  including  in  the  state 
budget the social insurance budget, compulsory medical insurance funds, special 
resources,  extra-budgetary  funds.  Creation  and  implementation  of  an  integrated 
informational system for public finance management. 

in 

Public Internal Financial Control 

–  Development  of  a  strategy  and  policy  paper  for  the  public  internal  financial 

control system (managerial accountability and internal audit). 

–  Establish legislative framework for public internal financial control. 

–  Gradual  harmonization  with  the  internationally  agreed  standards  (IFAC,  IIA, 
INTOSAI)  and  methodologies,  as  well  as  with  EU  best  practices  for  the  control 
and audit of public income, expenditure, assets and liabilities. 

External Audit 

–  Ensure  the  establishment  and  adequate  functioning  of  an  independent  Supreme 
Audit  Institution  in  line  with  the  internationally  accepted  and  EU  best  practice 
external  audit  standards  (INTOSAI  standards  –  International  Organisation  of 
Supreme Audit Institutions). 

Enterprise policy 

(43)  Develop  a  dialogue  on  enterprise  policy  aiming  at  the  improvement  of  the 
administrative and regulatory environment for companies, at promoting industrial co-
operation  and  tackling  the  impact  of  industrial  restructuring,  and  develop  the 
Moldovan legislative and administrative framework for SME promotion - in line with 
articles 52, 69 and 70 of the PCA 

–  Develop  a  legislative  framework  and  appropriate  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  from  2004  (includes  participation  in  co-
ordination  meetings,  writing  an  annual  national  report  and  organising  an  annual 

26 

 
 
  
 
bilateral meeting with the European Commission and Moldovan enterprise policy 
stakeholders).  

–  Preparation of companies for progressive opening of internal market elements to 
Moldovan participation, focusing on information 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  initiatives  to  stimulate  competitiveness, 
including  in  the  tourism  sector  (e.g.  exchange  of  information,  participation  in 
networks and studies, training).  

2.5 Cooperation in Justice and Home Affairs 

Migration issues (legal and illegal migration, 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  establishment  of  an  electronic  database  for  the 
monitoring of migration flows to, via and from Moldova;  

–  Further  alignment  of  domestic  legislation  with  EU  standards  in  order  to 

criminalise illegal migration.  

(45) 

Supporting  the  efficient  management  of  migration  flows,  also  by  rendering 
consultative,  financial  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  experience  and  internship  in  relevant  services  of  EU 
countries dealing with migration policy. 

–  Adoption  and  implementation  of  Moldova's  National  Action  Programme  on 

Migration and Asylum Issues (migration issues). 

(46)  Approximation  of  Moldovan 

legislation 

the  EU  norms  and  standards, 
implementation of the 1951 UN Convention relating to the status of refugees and the 
1967 Protocol relating to the status of refugees, including the right to seek asylum and 
respect  for  the  principle  of  non-refoulement.  Approximation  of  the  system  of  state 
authorities  responsible  for  implementation  and  realisation  of  legislation  on  asylum 
and refugees to EU norms and standards.  

to 

–  Implementation of the obligations of the Geneva Convention and its Protocols, in 

particular through the development of an asylum system.  

–  Develop  a  system  for  electronic  information  exchange  between  all  relevant 

authorities (border guard, police, Migration Department). 

–  Advice on Eurodac Regulation and functioning of the Eurodac system. 

–  Adoption  and  implementation  of  Moldova's  National  Action  Programme  on 

Migration and Asylum Issues (asylum issues).  

27 

 
 
  
 
(47) 

Improve  cooperation  regarding  the  efficient  management  of  migration  flows  and  on 
readmission of own nationals, persons without 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 readmission 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 return and re-integration.  

–  Explore  the  possibility  of  inviting  Moldova  to  participate  in  or  observe  the 
activities  organised  in  the  framework  of  the  EU  programmes  on  migration 
(ARGO, AENEAS) 

(48)  Pursue a dialogue concerning cooperation on visa policy 

–  Exchange  of  views  on  Schengen  procedures  and  initiate  a  dialogue  on  the 

possibilities of visa facilitation 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, comprehensive state border management on all 

sectors of the Moldovan border, including 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-operation  with  neighbouring  countries,  including 
border demarcation and the conclusion of co-operation agreements.  

–  Start developing a comprehensive education and training strategy on state border 
management, including improved understanding of Schengen rules and standards. 

–  Enhance  equipment  and  develop 

infrastructure  for  efficient  state  border 

management. 

(50) 

Intensify  and  facilitate  cross-border  cooperation  between  Moldova,  the  EU  Member 
States and neighbouring countries. 

–  Continuation of the “Söderköping process” 

28 

 
 
  
 
–  Develop regional co-operation between relevant law enforcement bodies (police, 

border guards, migration and asylum services, customs) 

Fight against organised crime (including trafficking in human beings) 

(51)  Ratification  and  full  implementation  of  international  instruments  which  are  of 

particular importance in combating organised crime  

–  Ratify UN Convention against Trans-national Organised Crime  and its protocols 
on  smuggling  of  migrants  and  trafficking  in  persons  and  adopt  and  implement 
national legislation (including human 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  authorities  (police,  border  guards, 
customs)  through  the  provision  of  modern  equipment,  facilities  and  training  in 
order  to  increase  in  particular  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  national  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 organisations (OSCE, UN). 

–  Implement provisions on the fight against trafficking in human beings contained 
in the National Human Rights Action Plan of the Republic of Moldova for 2004-
2008 (chapter 7b).  

–  Promote regional co-operation between relevant 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  abuse  in  particular  through 
prevention and rehabilitation, in accordance with art.76 of the PCA 

–  Continue to implement the 1988 UN Convention on Illicit Traffic of Narcotic and 

Psychotropic Substances. 

–  Develop a national drug strategy. 

–  Develop and implement prevention programmes and programmes for treatment of 

drug addicts. 

29 

 
 
  
 
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;  convincing  progress  in  efforts  to  establish  and 
implement a comprehensive anti money laundering regime.  

–  Develop the necessary legislative framework, including concerning the scope and 

mandatory nature of reporting suspicious transactions. 

–  Strengthen  co-operation  between  the  Central  Bank,  financial  institutions,  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-operation  between  Moldova  and  international 
organisations,  such  as  OECD-FATF  and  Council  of  Europe,  as  well  as  with 
corresponding services of EU Member states 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 cooperation can be offered and obtained from 
other states. 

–  Ratify relevant international conventions on co-operation in criminal and civil law 

and, where already ratified, encourage 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. 

30 

 
 
  
 
(56)  Further  develop  co-operation  between  Moldova  and  EU  Member  State  judicial  and 

law enforcement authorities 

–  Elaborate  a  manual  on  judicial  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  with  EU  Member  States  law  enforcement 

authorities to exchange information  

–  Introduction of modern investigative 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 implementation 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  transport  policy,  with  a  focus,  where 
appropriate  on  further  approximation  of  legislative  and  regulatory  frameworks 
with European and international standards, in particular for safety and security (all 
transport modes).  

–  Develop  an  infrastructure  policy  (identifying  capacity  constraints,  lack  of  inter-
modal equipment and missing link infrastructure) in order to identify the priority 
infrastructure projects in various sectors.  

–  Creation  of  a  long-term  and  transparent  system  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  development  of  the  Pan-European  Corridors 
and  Areas  as  well  as  in  the  TRACECA  programme.  Possibly,  extension  of  EIB 
lending. 

(58) 

Implement selected measures and reforms in the road transport sector 

–  Adoption of transparent regulatory processes regarding the award of licenses and 
introduction  of  mandatory  driving  times  and  rest  periods  complying  with 
international standards. 

–  Develop  a  road  safety  action  plan  (including  dangerous  goods  transport  and 

roadworthiness) for improving road safety. 

31 

 
 
  
 
(59) 

Implement selected measures and reforms 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 (interoperability) of rail transport services.  

(60) 

Implement selected measures and reforms in the aviation sector 

–  Pursuit of a national aviation policy for the 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  reforms  in  the  maritime  and  inland  waterway 
sectors 

–  Implement relevant international maritime conventions (including IMO).  

–  Pursue  effective  enforcement  in  the  areas  of  Port  State  Control  and  Flag  State 
the  IMO’s  Maritime 

implementation  as  well  as  resolutions  of 

Control 
Environment Protection Committee on Tanker Safety. 

–  Pursuit of a national inland waterway transport policy for the development of the 
sector  (including  a  vision  on  the  upgrading  of  the  national  fleet)  and  the 
establishment of effective 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  policy  converging  towards  EU  energy  policy 

objectives. 

–  Prepare  an  updated  energy  policy  document  with  an  indication  of  financing 

sources and a timetable for implementation. 

–  Strengthen capacities for monitoring and forecasting energy developments. 

32 

 
 
  
 
(63)  Gradual  convergence  towards  the  principles  of  the  EU  internal  electricity  and  gas 

markets. 

–  Establish - on the basis of Moldova's experience 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 and a financing plan. Reciprocity issues 
to be addressed appropriately (market opening, environmental norms).  

–  Energy  price  developments  and  tariff  reforms  towards  the  elimination  of 

distortions; improvement of bill collection rates. 

–  Further develop the National Energy Regulatory Agency towards an independent 

body.  

–  Further  restructure  the  electricity,  gas  and  heat  sectors  and  address  payment 

arrears. 

–  Participation in EU related energy events. 

(64)  Progress regarding energy networks. 

–  Substantial reduction of network losses (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 energy efficiency and enhancing the use of 
renewable energy sources, reinforcing the relevant institutions, accompanied by a 
financing plan, quantitative targets and timetables for implementation. 

–  Implement a set of low cost measures in this area.  

Information Society 

(67)  Accelerate progress in electronic communications policy and regulation 

–  Adopt a national policy on the development of the sector.  

–  Adopt  a  comprehensive  regulatory  framework  including  licensing,  access  and 
interconnection,  numbering,  cost-orientation  of  tariffs,  Universal  Service  and 
users rights, privacy protection and data security. 

–  Effective implementation of the market liberalisation launched on 1 January 2004 

including support of a fully competitive environment. 

33 

 
 
  
 
–  Ensure  the  independence,  increase  the  powers  and  improve  the  efficiency  of  the 
National Agency for Regulation in Telecommunications and Informatics (NARTI) 
by  providing  additional  human  and  financial  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  and  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 education sectors (e-commerce, e-
government,  e-health,  e-learning),  via  the  provision  of  advanced  infrastructures, 
the development of content and the introduction of pilot projects. 

–  Improve the use of Internet and online services by the citizens via public computer 

training programmes. 

–  Adopt a specific plan to promote the participation of Moldova in the IST part of 

the 6th Framework Programme. 

Environment  

(69)  Take steps to ensure that conditions for good environmental governance are  set and 

start implementing them 

–  Strengthen  administrative  structures  and  procedures  to  ensure  strategic  planning 
of environmental issues, including financing 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 the state-of-the-environment  

–  Strengthen structures and procedures necessary 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 civil society actors and local authorities  

34 

 
 
  
 
(70)  Take  active  action  for  prevention  of  deterioration  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  legislation  for  key  environmental  sectors  (water 
quality,  waste  management,  air  quality,  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  programmes  and  plans  (water,  waste,  air,  industrial 
pollution),  notably  by  completing  the  plan  on  liquid  waste  and  the  plan  on 
persistent organic pollutants. 

(71)  Enhance co-operation on environmental issues 

–  Implement  provisions  under  the  Kyoto  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  component  of  the  EU  Water 
Initiative 

–  Identify  possibilities  with  neighbouring  countries  for  enhanced  regional  co-

operation in particular as regards trans-boundary issues 

–  Possible participation in selected European Environment Agency activities 

–  Strengthen  administrative  capacities  for  the  implementation  of  regional  and 

international agreements 

Research, development and innovation 

(72)  Prepare  Moldova’s  integration  into  the  European  Research  Area  and  into  the 
Community R&D Framework Programmes on the basis of scientific excellence 

–  Implement appropriate information strategy to facilitate adequate participation of 

Moldovan scientists in the Community 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  technological  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. 

35 

 
 
  
 
(74) 

Support Moldova’s integration in high level scientific exchanges. 

–  Reinforce  Moldavian  participation  in  international  Marie  Curie  fellowships 

including support of the appropriate return mechanisms. 

–  Promote participation of Moldavian scientists 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  (promote  greater  autonomy  of  Universities, 
modernise curricula, introduction of a credit system).  

–  Use  participation  in  the  programme  Tempus  III  to  explore  the  possibility  of 

fostering the development of human resources and human capital. 

–  Involve civil society stakeholders and social partners in higher education and VET 

reform. 

–  Further implementation of a national programme to introduce IT in education. 

(76)  Enhance co-operation in the field of education, training and youth 

–  Support  exchange  and  study  opportunities  for  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 dialogue, youth exchanges and co-operation in 

the field of non-formal education through the YOUTH programme 

Culture and audio-visual issues 

(77)  Enhance cultural co-operation 

–  Intensify  cultural  exchanges  giving  priority  to  mobility  of  young  Moldovans, 

particularly through the Youth programme. 

–  Approximate  relevant  audiovisual  legislation  in  full  compliance  with  European 
standards (with a view to a possible future participation in the Media programme 
if prerequisites are fulfilled.) 

36 

 
 
  
 
–  Develop a dialogue on cultural diversity, including in the context 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 opportunities and challenges arising from EU enlargement.  

–  Encourage  local  and  regional  own-initiative  approach  to  establish  and  develop 

cross-border co-operation. 

–  Implement  activities  based  on  local  and  regional  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  efficient  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 with the support of the WHO. Relate the 
information system of Moldova to the health indicators process underway in the EU.  

Health information and knowledge: 

–  Organise collection of information on health indicators 

Communicable Disease Surveillance 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 surveillance networks, in particular those collecting data 
and  information  on  HIV/AIDS,  sexually  transmitted  infections,  and  hepatitis  C 
and B. 

–  Reform of health system:  

37 

 
 
  
 
–  Improve  the  primary  health  care  system  and  the  prevention  of  diseases,  such  as 
the  HIV/AIDS  epidemic,  notably  in  rural  and  deprived  communities  and  within 
vulnerable groups 

–  Modernisation of emergency services 

–  Health services autonomy, especially 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  adoption  of  the  necessary 
negotiating directives.  

The joint bodies established under the Partnership and Co-operation Agreement will advance 
and  monitor  the  implementation  of  the  Action  Plan.  The  structures  under  the  relevant 
agreements, where appropriate, should be reviewed, to ensure that all priorities under the ENP 
are duly reflected.  

The  Commission  will  produce  reports  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  organisations  such  as  the  Council  of  Europe,  the  OSCE, 
relevant UN bodies, and International Financial Institutions.  

A first review of the implementation of the Action 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. 

38 

 
 
  
 
Glossaire 

CEN 

European Committee for Standardization 

CENELEC 

European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardisation 

EASA 

European Aviation Safety Agency 

EGPRSP 

Economic Growth and Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper 

ETSI 

FATF 

FIU 

IAIS 

IASB 

IEC 

European Telecommunications Standards Institute 

Financial Action Plan Task Force for Money Laundering 

Financial Intelligence Unit 

International Association of Insurance Supervisors 

International Accounting Standards Board 

International Electrotechnical Commission 

IFAC: 

International Federation of Accountants 

IIA: 

ILO: 

IMO 

Institute of Internal Audit 

International Labour Organisation 

International Maritime Organisation 

INTOSAI: 

International Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions 

IOSCO: 

International Organisation of Securities Commissions 

ISO 

IST 

ITU 

JAA 

International Organisation for Standardisation 

Information Society Technologies 

International Telecommunication Union 

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 

39