European Commissioner concludes visit to Moldova in Criuleni

European Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Christophe Hansen concluded his visit to the Republic of Moldova with a visit to Criuleni district to assess the need for rehabilitation of the country's centralized irrigation systems.

One of the visited objectives was Criuleni-based irrigation system, for which a feasibility study was carried out, confirming the investment opportunity. The supply pipelines and related infrastructure are worn out, leading to frequent disruptions and additional costs for farmers.

The project will be supported by a loan of about 49 million euros from the French Development Agency (AFD), coupled with an investment grant of over 18 million euros from the European Union through the Neighbourhood Investment Platform, as part of the Growth Plan for Moldova.

Furthermore, the system area includes land allocated to the Technical University of Moldova, covering an area of 570 hectares, of which about 430 ha are included in the irrigation network. These will be used for practical activities, research, and didactic experiments.

Additionally, the area hosts traditional agricultural companies, including Cricova winery, declared a national heritage. In total, 20 agricultural producers in the region have expressed interest in accessing water, increasingly focusing on high-value crops such as vegetables, vineyards, and orchards.


"You cannot produce anything in agriculture without water. We want Moldovan farmers to feel part of a larger family – the European family. Our support does not stop at grants or loans, but means partnership and solidarity," emphasized Christophe Hansen.


Hansen was on a first official visit to the Republic of Moldova on September 1-2.

The official had several meetings with state authorities. The discussions covered the stages of transformation the agri-food sector is undergoing, the process of aligning with European Union standards, and the importance of strengthening national institutions responsible for implementing agricultural policies.

There was also discussion about modernizing irrigation infrastructure and adapting agriculture to climate change, topics deemed essential for increasing competitiveness and ensuring food security.

Additionally, topics regarding rural development, stimulating investments, increasing export capacity, and integrating Moldovan producers into the European market were addressed.