EU adds two areas to Ukraine and Moldova membership talks

The European Union has expanded its membership talks with Ukraine and Moldova.

Representatives of the EU’s 27 member states agreed in Luxembourg to open discussions on two more policy areas.

They cover the single market, including the movement of goods, services, capital and workers, and competitiveness and inclusive growth, including economic policy, taxation, education and research.

The talks are part of a process designed to check whether candidate countries meet the requirements for EU membership.

The decision is a sign that the countries’ reform efforts are advancing, though Ukraine faces the added strain of Russia’s attack.

Ukraine still needs major reforms, including in fighting corruption, and its talks are not expected to conclude before the next decade.

EU leaders are due to discuss enlargement at their autumn summit.