Highlights from PLATFORMA Eastern Partnership Cluster Meeting

The 3rd Cluster Meeting of the PLATFORMA Eastern Partnership (EaP) took place on 27 November in Brussels, bringing together key stakeholders to review ongoing activities, share lessons learned, and discuss future strategies for enhancing cooperation within the EaP framework. The event was co-chaired by Bella Tskhelishvili (PLATFORMA) and Agita Kaupuža (LALRG), and focused on fostering partnership activities, sharing best practices, enhancing political engagement and strengthening collaboration with EU institutions.

The meeting highlighted a series of implemented and upcoming activities by partner organisations, aimed at fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among municipalities across the EaP region. Floor Steenkamp (VNG international) delivered a presentation showcasing successful collaboration models between associations of municipalities, emphasising the impact of partnerships in Ukraine and Georgia. Participants highlighted the importance of replicating such models to drive regional development and strengthen resilience.

Insights from the New EU Commissioner for Enlargement

The meeting also reflected on the hearing of Marta Kos, the new European Commissioner for Enlargement. Key takeaways included:

• Merit-based enlargement process and increased civil society engagement
• Combating disinformation and communicating the benefits of EU membership
• Specific guidance for Georgia to abolish controversial laws on foreign interference
• Two potential paths for the Eastern Neighbourhood:
  • Enlargement Path: notable progress for Ukraine and Moldova, with further alignment needed for Georgia;
  • Neighbourhood Path: continued focus on Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Belarus.

Meeting with the Moldovan Delegation

The PLATFORMA secretariat also organised a meeting at the DG NEAR Moldova unit with local elected representatives of the Moldovan delegation. The discussions centred on key topics, including the recent elections and referendum in Moldova.

Participants highlighted the necessity for effective public administration reform and improved communication about its benefits. The discussion also focused on the New Economic Growth Plan for Moldova. Local officials emphasised the importance of evaluating the plan’s status and exploring how local governments (LGs) and their associations can actively participate.

They stressed that CALM and local authorities need to engage vigorously in the EU negotiation process, as membership introduces new responsibilities. Additionally, local officials indicated a need for training in applying for EU funding and promoting local initiatives.

Lastly, discussions underscored the importance of continued support from the European Committee of the Regions and CEMR & PLATFORMA to enhance the role of local governments in Moldova. The aim is to expedite the final decision on the Joint Consultative Committee for Moldova and to strengthen collaboration with the Committee of the Regions.