The future free trade areas will be part of the Association Agreement, under negotiation with Georgia and Moldova since July 2010 and January 2010, in the framework of the Eastern Partnership and the European Neighbourhood Policy
On this occasion the EU has decided to launch negotiations on a deep and comprehensive free trade area with Georgia and Moldova in order to boost economic growth and investment with the Eastern European partners.
The talks would tackle a broad range of trade and economic issues so as to achieve a closer economic integration with the EU. The parties will now engage in preparations for the first negotiating round to take place in early 2012.The first negotiating round is due to take place in early 2012.
`We want to establish a stable and solid framework for closer economic ties with Georgia and Moldova,` said EU Trade Commissioner Karel De Gucht, adding: `A deep and comprehensive free trade area will help Georgia and Moldova to become more competitive and enjoy the benefits of the EU Single Market."`
