The Republic of San Marino has signed the Association Agreement with the European Union, alongside the Principality of Andorra. The ceremony took place today, 19 October, at 1 p.m. at the Berlaymont building, headquarters of the European Commission in Brussels.
The agreement was signed by Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs Luca Beccari on behalf of San Marino, and by European Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič on behalf of the EU. At the same time, an amendment to the Monetary Convention was also signed, with Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis signing for the European Union.
The signing concludes the negotiating process and opens the implementation phase of the agreement, which will lead to greater integration of the Republic into the European single market. The statement describes the strengthening of ties with the EU as a strategic choice, offering prospects for citizens, businesses and institutions alike.
“Today is one of those days destined to go down in San Marino’s history. The signing of the Association Agreement with the European Union is a milestone and the starting point of a new chapter, the result of a process spanning nearly eleven years and supported by four San Marino governments, which brings the country closer integration into the European single market and, after 40 years of relations, makes it a ‘partner’ rather than simply a friend of the Union. The achievement reached today fills us with pride and satisfaction, because it gives concrete shape to work built on political commitment, technical expertise, dialogue and determination. It is the result of a deliberate choice: to look to the future, strengthen our bond with Europe, and offer our country new opportunities without giving up our identity and our autonomy,” said Beccari.
The Secretary of State also pointed to the work carried out so far and the commitments that will follow the signing: “Behind this moment lies the work of many people, trust in our institutions, and the conviction that San Marino can play a leading role in facing the changes ahead. Today we celebrate an extraordinary achievement; from tomorrow we will bear the responsibility of turning it into concrete benefits for the Republic and its citizens.”
Commissioner Šefčovič placed the agreement within the broader context of European relations and international tensions: “With the signing of this association agreement, we are opening a new chapter of deeper partnership between the European Union, Andorra and San Marino. It sends a clear signal: at a time of geopolitical uncertainty and growing fragmentation, our answer is not isolation but cooperation. By bringing our economies and societies closer together, this agreement will strengthen our collective resilience, bringing greater stability, predictability and opportunity. The European Union has taken into account — and will continue to take into account — the distinctive characteristics of Andorra and San Marino, and will remain committed to standing by their side in the future.”
