The European Commission has strengthened digital cooperation between Moldova and the EU to cover steps that enhance cybersecurity, tackle misinformation, and include Moldova in the EU roaming area. The move marks the initial cyber agreement reached under the Danish Presidency helps address major cybersecurity incidents. It is a significant achievement in the Commission’s efforts to deepen digital cooperation and boost the security of both Moldova and the EU, as outlined in the joint EU-Moldova Declaration.
The Council’s authorization to use the EU Cybersecurity Reserve for Moldova marks a key advancement in regional security and EU-Moldova digital cooperation under the EU’s Cyber Solidarity Act.
In the declaration, the EU reconfirmed its solidarity with and support to Moldova in countering hybrid and cyber threats posed by Russia, and remains prepared to continue assisting Moldova’s digital transformation and cybersecurity efforts, including through Cyber Rapid Response Teams.
The EU will continue to support the country in building the resilience of its institutions against foreign information manipulation and interference as well as hybrid threats by making available relevant instruments of support in this regard, including the EUPM, the Hybrid Rapid Response Teams, Cyber Rapid Response Teams, and assistance for strategic communication and cyber security.
The declaration outlined that following the adoption and ratification of the necessary amendment of Moldova’s Association Agreement to the Digital Europe Programme, the EU will finalize remaining internal procedures to allow the full operationalization of the EU Cybersecurity Reserve for Moldova, ahead of the September parliamentary elections.
The Commission also welcomes the political agreement for Moldova to join the ‘Roam Like at Home’ area. Following the formal adoption, this will enable Moldovan citizens and EU travellers to call, text, and use mobile data without incurring additional charges.
Additionally, Moldova joins the EU Third Countries’ Trusted List for validation of electronic signatures from non-EU countries. This allows easy validation of signatures and seals from EU organisations and citizens, making it easier for EU and Moldovan companies and citizens to do business together.
Finally, to strengthen societal resilience against foreign interference and disinformation in the region, a new hub of the European Digital Media Observatory, FACT, has been established with the Commission’s support.
