''Today's forum is about one of the EU's fundamental values: solidarity. We gathered today with other donors to mobilize support for the Moldovan Government's plan "Rethink Moldova". Good progress was registered in the first 100 days + of the Moldovan government in terms of reforms carried out despite difficult internal and external conditions.
We have a clear and joint target: political association and economic integration between EU and Moldova. Tomorrow, we will hold the second round of negotiations for the Association Agreement which will include the steps we need to take towards this objective.
I am encouraged by the Moldovan Government's commitment to continue these ambitious reforms in the field of public administration, economic recovery, independence of the judiciary, fight against corruption, to name just a few. These reforms will have our collective support. The EU will substantially step up its support to Moldova, one of the top recipients of our funds under the European Neighbourhood Policy. 273 Million Euro are earmarked for grants over the period 2011-2013, an increase by almost 75 %. This will be complemented by a macro financial aid to be approved in the weeks to come as well as by resources for regional and inter regional programs. This is a tangible evidence of the commitment on our side and a clear signal of our trust in the concepts highlighted in "Rethink Moldova" programme.''
