Siegfried Muresan says today's vote in European Parliament also merit of pro-European leadership, people of Moldova

“Today's result is also the merit of the pro-European leadership from Chisinau and the people of Moldova, who have withstood threats from the Russian Federation and clearly supported the country's European path”. Siegfried Muresan has made statements to this effect, after the European Parliament today approved the Reform and Growth Facility for Moldova worth 1.9 billion euros.

Muresan, who is also the European Parliament's co-rapporteur for this growth facility, noted that the overwhelming majority of MEPs had voted for the 1.9 billion euro Facility for Moldova.

“Vote result: 499 for, 117 against, 44 abstentions. Today's historic vote, with a clear majority, shows that we are united at the level of the European Parliament in supporting Moldova even more on the next period”, Muresan said.

MEP Eugen Tomac also wrote on his page that “the majority vote for Moldova is proof that Europe does not abandon those who believe in it”.

“This is not just a financial package. This is a shield against the unseen war, which Russia is waging against democracy. This is a real chance for an entire generation to live without fear that their future will be dictated by Moscow. The Republic of Moldova needs the European Union, just as the European Union needs a European Moldova”, Tomac opined.

The mechanism approved today aims to help the country cope with the major challenges it is facing, especially the deep impact of Russia's aggression war against Ukraine on the country's security, economy and population.

The new instrument will strengthen Moldova's resilience against hybrid attacks and Russian interference targeting its democratic processes and institutions. It provides 520 million euros in grants and 1.5 billion euros in low-interest loans. The mechanism also includes pre-financing of 18 per cent of the total support, up from the initially proposed 7 per cent, allowing a quick mobilization of resources to boost energy security, anti-corruption infrastructure and modernize public services.

To ensure full parliamentary control, the agreement establishes a dialogue between the Parliament and the Commission, in order to periodically assess progress in implementation. The agreement also allows for voluntary contributions on behalf of other donors, such as international financial organizations, in order to provide Moldova with additional financial support.

The funds under this facility will be disbursed twice a year, following requests from the Moldovan government.