Moldova signs two justice agreements with EU

Chisinau, Oct 17 /MOLDPRES/- Moldova has signed agreements with the European Union for JUST and CERV programs. Justice Minister Veronica Mihailov-Moraru and European Commissioner for Justice Didier Reynders signed the documents on Wednesday in Brussels.

According to the official, the two agreements with the European Union will open new opportunities for the Republic of Moldova within JUST and Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) programs for 2021-2027.

"We thank the European Commission for supporting the Republic of Moldova in its efforts to speed up European integration processes. We express our hope to open negotiations on the chapters of the Cluster 1 - Fundamental Values as soon as possible", said the minister.

By joining the Justice Programme, aimed at strengthening the independent and efficient judicial system, the Republic of Moldova will benefit from support and expertise in the judicial cooperation in criminal and civil matters; in the judicial training, strengthening cooperation for the effective implementation of EU legal instruments; in the effective access to justice, the possibility of obtaining effective remedies, including through electronic means (e-justice), in the field of promoting and supporting the rights of victims of crime, etc. The Programme is intended for national authorities that will be able to apply in the area of justice reform, as well as civil society organizations, especially in the access to justice.

The agreement on participation in the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values program aims to support the development of a democratic and rights-based society through access to support mechanisms for civil society organizations. Moldova will participate as an associated country in the program components promoting human rights, gender equality and combating violence. Accession to this programme will allow institutions and non-governmental organizations to access grants from the European Commission in the areas covered by Chapters 23 and 24 of the European Union legislation. This agreement will contribute to the involvement of citizens in democratic life and strengthen mechanisms for the protection of fundamental rights.

Both agreements will enter into force when the Parties notify the completion of the necessary internal procedures to this end.