The European Union welcomes the appointment of a government in Moldova, said the office of the Swedish Presidency of the European Council on 25 September, following the repeat parliamentary elections on 29 July. The Council added that the EU notes with satisfaction all political contributions to the democratic process following the elections and trusts that a climate of responsible cooperation will prevail as political developments proceed. The appointment of a government is an essential first step, which will enable Moldova to begin to tackle the critical challenges that it faces, in particular in the context of the world economic and financial crisis, and to move forward with reforms. The EU is ready to support Moldova in these efforts and has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening and strengthening its relations with Moldova, including in the framework of the Eastern Partnership. In particular, the EU is looking forward to starting, as soon as possible, negotiations on a new agreement with Moldova that will replace and go beyond the current Partnership and Cooperation Agreement.