Strasbourg, 15/09/2011 (Agence Europe) - In its recommendations to the Council and the European External Action Service (EEAS) on the negotiations for an EU-Moldova association agreement, the European Parliament welcomed the progress made in cooperation between the EU27 and its Eastern partner. The recommendations were made in a report by Graham Watson (ALDE, UK) which was adopted on 15 September. EU-Moldova cooperation has been made in foreign and security policy, energy, human rights and trade and has allowed for most of the negotiating chapters to be “successfully concluded in time”. Nonetheless, MEPs called on the EU to “maintain strong pressure” on the Moldovan authorities, together with real support, to help Moldova consolidate reform and accomplish tangible progress in the fight against corruption, reform of the legal system, research and police services. The MEPs also call on the Moldovan authorities to promote dialogue between the political parties in Moldova, to adopt anti-discrimination legislation, particularly with regard to sexual orientation, and to promote freedom and pluralism in the media. The EU will have to ensure that Chisinau is committed to more transparent management of public finances, better legislation on public procurement and reform of the regulatory framework in order to attract direct investment from abroad. The EU27 will also have to work towards opening up negotiations, before the end of this year, on a far-reaching and comprehensive free trade zone with Moldova. Finally, the EU will have to step up its efforts to provide sustainable support in the conflict in Transnistria. European Parliament President Jerzy Buzek stated in a press release that “Moldova is moving towards to its European vocation. Through this vote, the European Parliament recognises Moldova's growing importance in Europe and its significance and commitment to the European Union as a key partner.” (EH/transl.fl)