Relations between the European Union and the Republic of Moldova have intensified in recent years. Moldova joined the EU's Eastern Partnership in 2009, and the EU-Moldova Association Agreement entered into force on 1 July 2016.
The European Union is the largest donor of the Republic of Moldova, supporting political and economic reforms, and providing humanitarian aid. Moldova is the largest beneficiary of EU aid per capita in the European Neighbourhood. EU assistance is being used for key reforms in the justice, education, economic development and energy sectors.
The new framework is innovative and ambitious, including a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) and an Association Agenda which aims to stimulate economic integration and political association between Moldova and the EU.