During the CoR plenary debate with Crsitina Gherasimov, Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration of Moldova, ECR Member Pavel Branda praised the country's efforts and resilience in securing Moldova's place in the European Union.

"We commend the Moldovan people for their courage and determination in choosing a European path, even under immense pressure from external actors who continue to exert de facto control over parts of the country’s territory", said Mr Branda who also acknowledged the ongoing impact of Russia’s hybrid activities, particularly through the unresolved situation in Transnistria, which are clearly intended to disrupt Moldova’s political stability and democratic processes. 

Mr Branda praised the decision of Moldova to hold a national referendum to enshrine EU membership in the constitution, a decision he described as "a powerful expression of Moldova’s democratic will and its strategic commitment to European integration". The next step is to act upon this commitment by "staying on course with reforms", continuing to align national institutions and legislation with the EU acquis, he concluded.