Three Stress Tests for Moldova’s Association Agreement with the EU

On 27 June, Moldova signed an Association Agreement (AA) with the European Union. Yet its implementation might be thwarted in numerous ways: first, by pressure from Russia, second, by the results of the parliamentary elections in November, and third, if Tiraspol declines to comply with the provisions of the AA. To help Chişinău overcome these challenges, the EU should maintain intense political support in the run-up to the elections and assist the Moldovan economy to adapt swiftly to the requirements of the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (DCFTA). Brussels and Chişinău also need to work out a patient and flexible formula for Transnistria’s participation in the DCFTA.