Shared Neighbourhood or New Frontline? The Crossroads in Moldova "Russie.Nei.Visions", No. 2, April 2005

In 2005, the EU-Russia strategic dialogue stands troubled. Recent developments highlight the rising salience of the new shared neighbourhood - that is, in Ukraine, Moldova, Belarus and the South Caucasus - as the frontline between the enlarged EU and Russia. This paper examines the state of affairs in the declared 'strategic partnership', before turning to a discussion of the European Neighbourhood Policy. The example of Moldova is explored as a crossroads between divergent EU and Russian interests. In conclusion, the paper puts forward policy proposals for the EU to consider with regard to Moldova and the partnership with Russia.