Moldova, Romania sign joint declaration to strengthen cooperation in European programmes

Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Infrastructure and Regional Development Vladimir Bolea and Romania's Minister of Investments and European Projects, Dragoș-Nicolae Pîslaru, today in Chisinau signed a Declaration on bilateral cooperation in the programmes centrally managed by the European Commission. The declaration was regarded by officials as a document of strategic importance for the European path of Moldova.

“The signing of this Declaration not only strengthens strategic relations with Romania, but is also an essential step towards the integration of Moldova into the European Union. Through this partnership, we open new doors for accessing European funds and for participating in relevant European initiatives that will bring tangible benefits for our citizens,” said Vladimir Bolea.

The official estimated that this agreement would provide a solid platform for joint projects, which will accelerate the development of infrastructure, boost the local economy and contribute to the modernization of public services.

“Romania is already our main partner on the European path and this collaboration in European programmes will turn opportunities into results. We will work together, so that Moldova becomes an active part of this common space for development, stability and prosperity,” noted the deputy prime minister.

For his part, Romania’s Minister of Investments and European Projects, Dragoș-Nicolae Pîslaru, emphasized the strategic nature of this agreement for deepening the European integration of Moldova.

“Today, we are signing not just an administrative document, but also a declaration of trust, friendship and solidarity. Romania will always stand by Moldova on its European way, providing concrete support, expertise and openness to all available financing and cooperation instruments at the European Union’s level,” said the Romanian official.

The minister highlighted that Moldova’s participation in European programmes would create new bridges of collaboration, including for the business environment, local communities and the public sector.

“This collaboration means real development for citizens: infrastructure projects, digitalization, education, environment and innovation. We want Moldova to be prepared and competitive in the new European context. Access to EU funds should become commonplace for any settlement of Moldova, just as it is already in Romania,” mentioned Dragoș-Nicolae Pîslaru. He emphasized that Romania would  continue to act as a strong bridge between Chisinau and Brussels, supporting all reform and modernization efforts of the Moldovan authorities.

The document signed today shows the commitment of the two countries to collaborate more closely in attracting and implementing European funds. This initiative will contribute to increasing the absorption of EU funds in joint cross-border projects; simplifying access to European financing for authorities and communities in both states; accelerating the European integration process of  Moldova. The joint declaration will open new avenues for cooperation in key areas, such as infrastructure, regional development, digitalization and the green transition—all supported through European programmes relevant to both countries.

The event comes at a time when Moldova is making concrete steps towards aligning itself with European standards and mechanisms, with Romania staying the principal strategic partner on this way.