The European Union Presents a New Support Package for Moldova

The European Commission and the European External Action Service have developed a support package for the Republic of Moldova aimed at helping the country overcome the consequences of Russia's war in Ukraine. The announced assistance is also expected to support Moldova's path to EU integration. 

This is reported by the official website of the European Commission.

"Moldova has stood firmly in solidarity and defence of European values. And despite the enormous consequences of Russia's aggressive war for the country, Moldova is making great strides towards its European future. With today's package, the EU demonstrates that we stand by Moldova and will work to accelerate your European integration and reforms. Moldova's future is in the EU," said Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.

The support package for Moldova includes five priority areas that are expected to mitigate the negative impact of the unprovoked, aggressive war waged by Russia in Moldova's neighbour, Ukraine:

A Priority Action Plan that will promote economic development in the areas of trade under the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area and special projects under the Economic and Investment Plan that focus on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, trade, energy efficiency and human capital development.

Supporting domestic reforms by strengthening administrative capacity and providing advice to address the challenges posed by the expansion of "special training and support programmes".

Strengthening Moldova's energy security by increasing domestic electricity production and participating in the EU's joint gas purchase mechanism to promote "the use of renewable energy sources and focus on energy efficiency".

Strengthening Moldova's security through actions led by the High Level Political and Security Dialogue. At the same time, it is planned to expand cooperation through the EU Partnership Mission to Moldova.

Countering foreign information manipulation and interference, including disinformation, and strengthening strategic communication by providing technical support to the Moldovan government.

Some initiatives have already begun to be implemented. For example, European and Moldovan telecommunications operators signed an agreement to reduce data transmission tariffs. In addition, the Economic and Investment Plan (EIP) has been launched, which aims to mobilise up to €1.6 billion in public and private investment for flagship projects. The IPP currently supports projects worth around €670 million.

Following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Moldovan officials have repeatedly complained about the intensification of destructive processes in the country due to Russia's influence. In particular, they referred to the destabilisation of government institutions and cyber attacks.