Moldova is a clear candidate for joining European aviation area, European official

Moldova is a clear candidate for becoming a member of the European aviation area and this step will bring important economic and social advantages to the country, the chief negotiator on behalf of the European Commission Klaus Geil said during the first round of talks on signing the agreement to create a joint aviation area between Moldova and the EU held on July 27, Info-Prim Neo reports, quoting a communiqué from the Government. Klaus Giel said the joining of the common aviation area represents an invitation for Moldova to join the Club of European Countries, but he warned that this implies reforms and effort. According to him, the European Commission is ready to provide the necessary assistance. The Head of the EU Delegation to Moldova Dirk Schuebel said the opening of the talks on joining the integrated European aviation area represents a happy day for the relations between Moldova and the European Union. “This shows that the Moldovan-EU relations are intense and profound,” said the EU Ambassador, reminding that Moldova and the EU earlier started talks on creating a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area. Dirk Schuebel also said that Moldova’s entry into the integrated aviation area will lead to increased competitiveness in the field, improved management of air traffic, and higher standards as regards air transport and passenger safety. He promised he will provide all the support needed in the negotiations and to implement the agreement. Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration Iurie Leanca said the joining of the European aviation area is a priority for the Government. He stressed that the signing of the given agreement will bring benefits to the people and airlines. He also said that the negotiation and implementation of the agreement will allow treating Moldova like a country eligible for accession to the EU. The Government’s secretary general Victor Bodiu, who is the chief negotiator on behalf of Moldova, said the agreement will enable to provide cheaper plane tickets, to diversify the flights and to increase the number of foreign tourists and the incomes collected into the budget. There will be held three rounds of talks. The next two will take place in September and in November.