Environment chapter - among most expensive in EU accession negotiations

The negotiation chapter on environment is one of the most complex in Moldova’s accession to the European Union, due to the major investments needed in water and sewage infrastructure. Minister of Environment Gheorghe Hajder made the statement at a TV show.

The official explained that alignment with European standards requires the development of costly infrastructure projects, including modern sewage and water supply systems, with investments amounting to billions.


“The environment chapter is one of the most complicated and expensive, as it requires significant investments in infrastructure, such as sewage and water supply systems,” Hajder said.


According to the minister, the EU support is important for speeding up the reforms and implementing the necessary projects.


“Without the help of the European Union, this process would probably take decades. However, we have partners who provide the Republic of Moldova with both experience and technical expertise, as well as financial resources to carry out these investments,” the official underlined.


The minister mentioned that, in the course of the negotiations, the Republic of Moldova must present clear investment plans and credible sources of financing for implementing the commitments undertaken.

At the same time, Hajder said that environmental projects will benefit from support including from the Economic Growth Program for the Republic of Moldova, amounting to 1.9 billion euros.


“Part of these resources are already directed towards projects such as solid waste management, afforestation and other environmental initiatives. As we advance in the accession process, our implementation capacity will also have to be strengthened,” the minister added.


According to him, after the legislative harmonization stage, the Republic of Moldova will have to demonstrate that it can effectively implement European environmental standards.