Thursday, 15 September 2011 - Strasbourg

Explanations of vote:

Report: Graham Watson (A7-0289/2011 )

Pino Arlacchi (S&D ), in writing . − I voted for this report because it is important to sustain the positive evolution of political and economic relations between the EU and the Republic of Moldova. The future association agreement will deepen the political relationship and economic integration of the Republic of Moldova and the EU. Its principal objective is to draw Moldova closer to the EU, enhancing political cooperation and reinforcing joint measures in migration, asylum, border management, drugs and crime. In deepening its relations with the Republic of Moldova, the EU should also promote stability and confidence-building, including by contributing proactively to finding a viable solution to the Transnistrian conflict, which is a source of regional instability.

In order to achieve the conclusion of the agreement, the EU institutions should maintain strong pressure on the Moldovan authorities to consolidate reforms and achieve tangible progress in the fight against corruption and the reform of the judiciary. The European Union has made human rights and democracy a central aspect of its European Neighbourhood Policy. For this reason, the Council, the Commission and the EEAS should encourage the Moldovan authorities to adopt a comprehensive and effective anti-discrimination legislation and to strengthen media freedom and human rights.

[source:www.europarl.europa.eu]