First contract for Union Highway A8 signed; project to connect Moldova by road with European network

The Targu Neamt – Targu Frumos section of the Union Highway (A8) has entered the implementation phase, following the signing of the first financing contract under the SAFE Programme. The project is essential for Moldova, as it will provide the country with a direct road connection to the major European transport corridors and will unlock the potential of cross-border trade.

Romania’s acting Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan has made statements to this effect. He specified that this was the first contract financed through the SAFE Programme for the A8 Union Highway.

“Today, the first contract financed through the SAFE Programme for the Targu Neamt – Targu Frumos section of the A8 Union Motorway was signed,” Ilie Bolojan wrote in a post published on social media.

According to the Romanian PM, the lot has a value of almost 4.9 billion lei, excluding value added tax (VAT), and a length of 27 kilometers. The project includes the construction of 36 bridges and overpasses, four tunnels and three major road junctions important for the connectivity of the region, at Motca, Pascani and Targu Frumos.

The total implementation period is estimated at 46 months, of which 10 months are allocated for design and 36 months - for construction works.

The project will also include a connection with the A7 Moldova Highway, through the construction of a 5.5‑kilometer highway segment that will link the A8, the DN2 national road and the road junction at Pascani.

Ilie Bolojan also said that the contracts for the other sections of the A8 Motorway are to be signed on the coming period, after the resolution of appeals.

“Connectivity is a basic condition for the development of regions, and the Union Highway will contribute to the modernization and economic growth of the northern half of Romania and to the improvement of trade relations with Moldova and Ukraine,” said Romania’s interim prime minister.

He emphasized that the SAFE Programme provides Romania with access to financing for major infrastructure projects that contribute to economic development, improved mobility and increased road safety.

The A8 Highway, which will cross Romania from east to west, is considered a strategic project also for Moldova. The road corridor will enable a faster connection to the European transport infrastructure and could play an important role in future efforts to rebuild Ukraine, while strengthening Moldova’s position as a regional logistics hub.