**Ukraine and Moldova Join Forces for EU Integration**
On February 18, Ukraine and Moldova signed a memorandum of cooperation to work together towards joining the European Union. The agreement was signed by two Deputy Prime Ministers: Olha Stefanishyna from Ukraine and Cristina Gherasimov from Moldova.
The goal of this collaboration is to make it easier for both countries to join the EU. They will work together on things like negotiating with the EU, making laws the same, reforming their justice system, and getting financial support.
The memorandum also aims to share knowledge and experience in areas such as democracy, economy, and fighting corruption. This means that experts from Ukraine and Moldova can learn from each other and help each other improve in these areas.
**A Shared Goal**
Despite challenges around the world, both Ukraine and Moldova are committed to joining the EU. “We are ready to go hand in hand,” said Olha Stefanishyna.
Ukraine was given candidate status for EU membership in June 2022. The European Commission recommended starting accession talks with both Ukraine and Moldova in November 2023, and the European Council agreed to this a month later.
**Moldova’s Plans**
As an EU candidate country, Moldova aims to become a member by 2030 but remains neutral. It does not plan to join NATO but wants to strengthen its partnerships with other countries and international organizations to improve its defense capabilities.
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